India: August 10, 2013. (PCP) Making a plea to give parity to Dalit Christians with their Hindu counterparts, Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa demanded deletion of the restrictive definition of Scheduled Castes in the Constitution (SCs) Order, 1950. “The matter cannot brook any further delay. Prompt steps should be taken to bring in necessary legislation in the current session of Parliament,” she wrote to the Prime Minister on Friday.

Denial of affirmative action programmes to Dalit Christians is an injustice that has aggravated the sense of alienation among minority communities, she said and urged the PM to delete this ‘restrictive definition’ from the statute to bring all Dalits on equal platform irrespective of their faith. This would pave the way for Dalit Christians to avail benefits on par with SCs in Hinduism, Sikhism and Buddhism.

Para 3 of the Constitution (SCs) Order, 1950—the Presidential Order—says “no person who professes a religion different from Hindu, Sikh or Buddhist religion shall be deemed to be a member of a Scheduled Caste) Putting forth strong legal arguments, Jayalalithaa said the Constitution (SCs) Ord­er, 1950, derives its sanction from Article 341 of the Constitution, but the Constitution does not confine SCs to any select religion. “By extending the benefits of positive affirmation to a certain category of persons and then to proceed to confine the benefits under the Constitution Order, 1950, to citizens professing only specified religions like Hinduism, Sikhism and Buddhism and excl­uding from its purview citizens professing other religions, is not only ultra vires Article 341 but also militates against the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution to liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship to all its citizens”, the Chief Minister observed.
www.pakistanchristianpost.com

IMPLEMENT THE LAW ON CASTE DISCRIMINATION IN UK
DEMONSTRATION 04th September 2013, 12.00-15.00
PARLIAMENT SQUARE, WESTMINSTER LONDON

On 23 April 2013 Parliament agreed to implement the legislation on Caste discrimination in the UK. Three months later on 29 July 2013 (a day before the summer recess for Parliament) the Government published a timetable for the implementation of the legislation leaving no time for Parliamentary or public challenge

We are fully supportive of a sensible period of consultation to get the implementation of the law right. However, it is shameful that the Government has published such timetable that will mean that the legislation will not come into force (if at all) before the next election is called in April 2015. The stalling tactics are alarming. On the receiving end of the Government’s procrastination are victims, current and future, of Caste discrimination. So this begs the question, does the Government really want to implement the law?

Join us on 4 September on Parliament Square and demand that the Government comes up with a more sensible timetable that ensures that legislation is implemented without unnecessary delay in 2014.

For further information please contact infoacda@googlemail.com Twitter: @ACDAnewsPosted on www.ambedkartimes.com September 2, 2013

Villagers demand arrest of NRI
for abetting Sarpanch's suicide

PHAGWARA: Agitated villagers and kin of Dalit village sarpanch, who allegedly committed suicide by jumping before a train, held protests on Sunday, blocking movement of trains by squatting on railway tracks to demand the arrest of a Canada-based NRIfor abetting his suicide.

Des Raj (40), sarpanch of Khangura village under Phagwara sub-division took the extreme step on the rail track between Mehtan and Sapror villages yesterday. In a suicide note recovered by the police, the deceased had accused a Canada-based NRI of using caste-specific language against him after he refused to sign some papers that Singh wanted him to sign.

Raj's son Balkar Singh along with other villagers, supported by BSP activists, held up a train by squatting on railway track here and placed the sarpanch's body on a mini-truck near the protest site demanding the NRI's arrest.
Hundreds of train passengers were stranded on the route when the protesters held up Amritsar-Jai Nagar Shaheed Express near Santokhpura railway barrier on the outskirts of Phagwara for about 45 minutes, police said. They placed the body of Sarpanch nearby in a mini-truck and squatted on the track demanding arrest of the NRI under various sections of the IPC and relevant Sections of the SC and ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act. Government Railway Police (GRP) DSP Hardip Singh, Phagwara DSP Manjit Singh and Executive Magistrate Manvir Singh Dhillon reached the site and assured the protesters that appropriate action would be taken against the culprit. Meanwhile, a 'look- out' notice has been issued to all the airports in the country to ensure the NRI does not fly out, police said adding raids were being conducted to arrest him.http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/nri/other-news/Villagers-demand-arrest-of-NRI-for-abetting-sarpanchs-suicide/articleshow/22214002.cms

am glad to
inform to all worthy writers, readers and well
wishers of www.ambedkartimes.com
& www.ambedkartimes.org
that Sir Ganga Ram Heritage Foundation (SGRHF)
of Lahore, Pakistan is organizing Dr. Ambedkar
Day Annual International Seminar on “Social
Justice in South Asian Nation-States leads to
Regional Stability” at Lahore on July
2nd 2008 at Avari Hotel. The foundation has
invited Prof Ronki Ram, Chairperson of
the Dept. of Political Science, Panjab University
Chandigarh, Lahori Ram Balley, a veteran Ambedkarite,
Prof Satya P. Gautam, a Philosopher from JNU,
New Delhi to read papers. Dr. Ronki Ram will
present a Paper on: "Reading Social Democracy
with Ambedkar: Market, Caste and Dalits in the
Age of Globalization".
Baba Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was a great visionary
and Human Rights advocate who devoted his all
life for the welfare and empowerment of the
downtrodden. His seminal work and contribution
to the cause of social justice and human rights
in India has universal applications.

I am sure that this great Endeavour of SGRHF
will go a long way in facilitating awareness
about the philosophy of Dr. Ambedkar and Sir
Ganga Ram and further enhance the mutual understanding
and goodwill amongst the people of entire south
Asia .

The main attraction of the function was the release-ceremony of "Dhuppan Cha Turdian", a book of Punjabi Gazals written by Mr. Bhajan Singh Virk. The prominent personalities on the stage solemnised the ceremony. Two papers (Literary/Critical) were read on the book, one by Dr. Jagir Singh Noor and other by Mr. Santokh Kulaar. Both the writers praised the literary truth and beauty of the book. Mr. Santokh Kulaar was greatly impressed by the title of the book by Mr. Sukant Burman, the national artist painting wrath of life in his paintings. The literary gathering was addressed by Dr. S. L. Virdi Advocate, R. L. Jassi, Deep Grewal, Ved Parkash Lahar and Kanwar Imtiaz.

Phagwara, the industrial hub of Doaba region in the Punjab created a new history by holding a three day 'Manavwadi Mahapurshan Da Mela' on October 22, 23, 24, 2004. The Mela was unitedly organised by the two dozen Social, Religious and Literary organisations at historical place Shiromani Shri Guru Ravi Dass Mandir, G. T. Road, Chak Hakim, Phagwara. Total eleven Seminars were conducted on the Social, Cultural, Religious and Economic problems of the society. Dozens of Book Stalls and a Photo Pardarshani (picture exhibition) depicting the axis of the Mela and Meaningfully enough, the insignia of the Sammelan also showed a fettered man lifting a globe with determined bold bids to break the Shackles and that too, Globally!! Advocate S. L. Virdi was the Convener.

First Dharam Sansad was held on first day of the Mela, . A serious discussion was held on day by day increasing violence, class conflict, corruption, Communalism and casteism towards humanity.

A huge congragations gathered on the occasion Pledge to fight dowry, drugs, corruption, human rights violation and vowed to educate children and unite the community for liberating the aggreived and deprived sections of society from their misery. The pledges for administered by spiritual leaders.

They asserted that Indian thinkers had kept their eyes shut to the ground social reality and failed to feel the pulse of society. Human Rights, Religion, Language, Culture and Identity of the poor, dalits and minorities are in grave peril.

They issued a joint message for the society, stressing that ignorance is the mother of all sufferings, privation, social injustice and exploitation. Ignorance could be removed only by education. So everybody should be provided with the free uniforms and compulsory education up to class XII and also demanded a ban on the sale and intake of every kind of intoxicants.

Bahujan Azadi Andolan,
a non political movement was launched
at the 'Manavwadi Mahapurshan Da Mela;
S. L. Virdi Advocate has been appointed
its convener. The Sammelan concluded
with a clarion call to all Manav-Mukhi
(Human-Oriented) literatures to both
write and fight for Dalit upliftment,
liberation of the chained 'Manav'
with view to ushering in an era of
social justice, casteless and classless
society.

Sacramento:- The lack of authentic Punjabi identity manifests in people’s indifference towards language, literature, culture and politics. The fear of Punjabi’s extinction has awakened concerns in all sections of the society. The Patronizing efforts at the political and legislative levels have created a positive environment and hopes for the Punjabi renaissance. Though Punjabi literature negotiated all historic movements for the betterment of the society, it could not root out the hold of ignorance, superstitions and apathy from the society. The globalization has introduced consumerist tendencies in Punjabi culture. The Punjabi music and dance have lost their distinct forms to the indignity and infamy of the counterfeit culture of the west. Drugs have seized Punjabi youths. Sports, no longer define their power and prowess. Punjabi Literature of the subalterns (Dalits) remained ignored in spite of the literary merit and wide acceptability.

These concerns were highlighted in the panel discussion organized by Punjabi Sahit Sabha California (Regd) on May 31, 2008 in Jimmy Restaurant Yuba City, California. Dr. Ronki Ram, Chairperson, Dept of Political Science Panjab University Chandigarh, Dr. Pirthipal Singh Sohi of Government College Ludhiana, Prof. Pritam Singh of Union City and Dr. Karmjit Singh Brar of GHG Khalsa College Gursar Sadhar Ludhiana comprised the panel. The program was especially organized to honor intellectuals from India, Dr. Ronki Ram and Prithipal Singh Sohi.

The audience responded positively to two hours of intense discussion that enlightened them on the key issues. Punjabi Sahit Sabha California has decided to continue in future with ‘Discussion Forum’ to conduct lectures, panel discussions and debates. President of the Sabha, Harbans Singh Jagyasu introduced panelists on the stage. Two minutes silence was observed to mourn deaths of Ulfat Bajwa and Harpal Singh Chohan.

Politics, literature and culture are bound in a complex relationship that influences dreams, hopes and aspirations of a nation. The progress, prosperity and overall destiny of a nation are dependent on these feelings. The mother tongue provides stability to the ethnic identity and also extricates its people from the self-loathing and inferiority complexes.

Dr. Amrik Singh moderating the discussion asked Dr. Ronki Ram about threats of extinction to Punjabi Language in the next 50 years. Dr. Ronki Ram referred to the period from 1799-1849 in Punjab history when Punjabi language could have won the respect and admiration but did not. The symbol of unity (Punjabi) became faint, the society experienced division and undercurrents of hatred. Though Punjabi has got official patronage for the first time, the positive results are still awaited.

Interrelationship of Politics, literature and culture defines both love and coldness for the mother tongue. Obscene, consumerist and selfish interests can be defeated by creating a sense of pride for the Punjabi identity. He also said that caste, class and religion based hatred is counterproductive to Punjabi culture. Prof. Pritam Singh pointed out that the tendency to steal ideas of other writers for self promotion has dogged some writers. It has done a great disservice to readers who shy away from Punjabi books. Dr. Karmjit Singh Brar said that sports remained an important part of Punjabi identity, but unfortunately good players are discouraged by officials like KPS Gill who use sports for enjoying power. At the end, the discussion was open to the audience. Sumittar Uppal, Manjit Kaur Sekhon, Jyoti Singh, Mohinder Singh Ghagg asked questions from the panelists. It increased more interest in discussion.

A
note on the short visit of Prof. Ronki Ram
to North America
on the 117th birth anniversary
celebrations of Baba
Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar

Sacramento (Ambedkartimes.com News Bureau):- Prof. Ronki Ram, Chairperson of Political Science Department, Panjab University, Chandigarh ( India), was received at the Sacramento ( California) Airport by the officials and members of the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Sacramento) on his maiden visit to www.ambedkartimes.com in US on the afternoon of the May 26 th, 2008. On his arrival he was first taken to Shri Guru Ravidass Temple, Rio Linda (CA). After paying obeisance at the Guru Ghar (Rio Linda) the reception team apprised Dr. Ronki Ram of the various activities of the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Sacramento) and its future plans. Mr. Prem Kumar Chumber, editor www.ambedkartimes.com arranged his visit to the US and accompanied him from New York to California. This is in continuation of Dr. Ronki Ram’s short visit to North America. He arrived in Toronto (Canada) on May 14 th, 2008 on the combined invitation of Ambedkar Mission Toronto, Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha, Ontario and Bhagwan Balmik Sabha, Toronto. His first lecture was in Montreal on May 16 th, 2008 about the teachings and mission of Baba Sahib Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. On May 18 th, 2008, he participated as a Chief Guest Speaker in the program of the celebration of 117 th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar organized collectively by Ambedkar Mission Toronto, Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha, Ontario and Bhagwan Balmik Sabha, Toronto. Subsequently he delivered special guest lecture on Ad Dharm and the philosophy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on the occasion of the 117 th birth anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, celebrated at Shri Guru Ravidass Temple in New York (US) by Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of New York on May 25 th, 2008 (detailed reports follow soon).

Punjabi Sahit Sabha California organizes a meeting in the honour of Profs: Ronki Ram and Pirthipal Singh Sohi who are on short visit to US. Topic of Discussion: Sahit, Samaj and Siasath (Literature, Society and Politics).Dr. Amrik Singh will also participate in the deliberations. Some members of the Sabha will recite short stories/poems.

Sri Guru Ravidass Sabha, California, Pittsburgh is celebrating its 23 rd founding Anniversary at the Guru Ghar on Sunday June 1 st, 2008. Established on June 2 nd, 1985 to continue our religious teachings for generations to come this Guru Ravidass Temple is one of the most prominent and leading Guru Ghar’s in the world and holy symbol of our religious and cultural identity. Thanks to Guru Ravidass Ji for this blessing and congratulations to all the sangat for many accomplishments and a lot of progress achieved during the years. The congregation around Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji became a source of unity, inspiration and strength to stand for the rights of the community.

Please join us and participate in this important function which bears a special significance in the annals of history, will give us an opportunity to remind ourselves and take more initiative in fulfilling our duties. May Waheguru keep the dedicated sangat of this temple in chardi kala and fulfill their cherished desires. Guru ka Langer and Parshad Sewa will be served by Sadh Sangat.

The book and video sets will be launched in Montreal on May 24th, 2008

This book is about Dalit women worked together in the dry fallow lands of Andhra Pradesh in South India to ensure food security as well as produce social and ecological knowledge for sustainability, autonomy and equity. Their collective and empowering experience is vividly captured in the 12 videos which make up the Affirming Life and Diversity film series included in this book. The videos were produced by women farmers who are also village level film makers, members of the Community Media Trust of the Deccan Development Society (DDS). The video films show how marginalized women farmers and urban food consumers are regenerating sustainable and citizen controlled food systems, - for the well being of their communities and the land. These videos offer many lessons to policy makers, scientists and members of the international community who seek to eradicate extreme poverty and hunger whilst ensuring environmental sustainability. The rural images and voices brought together in this video film series also offer powerful arguments in favour of an alternative paradigm for food and agriculture, - one that resonates with the emerging concepts of 'food sovereignty' and active citizenship. The production of the videos was facilitated by the DDS and the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) on Sustaining Local Food Systems, Agricultural Biodiversity and Livelihoods.

The book and video sets will be launched in Montreal on May 24th, 2008 following a panel on Media and Social Change. Confirmed speakers for the panel are Marie Boti, Film-maker and Producer, Productions Multimonde; Peter Wintonick, an award-winning film-maker and Prof Vijaya Mulay, Film-maker and a great admirer of the Dalit women film-makers.

Vancouver : Surinder Mahay, the former Mayor of Jalandhar City ( Punjab ), received a warm welcome at the Vancouver International Airport on May 7. The mayor was received by Virinder Banagr, Balbir Bains, Gopal Lohia, Santokh Jassal, Lamber Rao, Jai Birdi, Sunder Kellay, Madan Jhim, Rana Mehay, and others. The Mayor is on world tour and will now be making short stop in various cities in Canada and the US before returning to India .

'I first met the Mayor a few years when he was in Vancouver attending a conference on urban development conference and was very pleased with the openness & genuineness he had shown to enhancing the economic, social, and cultural development and of Jalandhar and I am very pleased to see the Mayor back in Vancouver', said Gopal Lohia, president of Sur-Sangam Entertainment. Vancouver .Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( May 08, 2008

Periyar is a lyrical recreation of the life of the great Tamil reformer and cultural politician E.V.R Ramasamy. Meeting the popular requirements of song, melodrama, comedy and high seriousness the film recreates the major events and turning points in the life of this crucial advocate for change in India . Periyar’s atheism and calls for the abolition of caste distinctions still powerfully resonate in Tamil Nadu life and society. The film follows Ramasamy from Erode to Kerala and onto Singapore and Stalin’s Russia , and speaks to contemporary issues of religion, tradition, tactics, caste, identity, nationalism, state and language rights, and feminist struggles.

[With special thanks to Anbu Elongovan who made the DVD of Periyar with subtitles available to SAFES]

(See directions below)

The Spectrum Complex on 111 West Georgia Street is a short walk from the Stadium Sky train Station. Exit toward Beatty Street , cross Dunsmuir and walk South on Beatty. Do not go up to Georgia . Just past the Armory tanks and guns, turn left into the cul-de-sac. Entrance to 111 West Georgia (a tall residential tower) is at the end, on the right side. The doors to the complex are locked, but there is a Concierge (doorkeeper) behind the desk inside, who would let you in. The Screening Room is one short flight up.

The ruling Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) made a clean sweep of the crucial Uttar Pradesh by-polls, won all five seats (three Vidhan Sabha and two Lok Sabha) for which elections were held on Saturday. The chief Minister, Mayawati said that this victory of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) is a clear signal that the BSP will win heavily in the coming Lok Sabha elections. The opposition parties had got together to defeat the BSP nominees, but they all defeated by the BSP candidates, even the BJP could not save its deposit in four seats, she said.

Amritsar:- The Department of History, under the Chairmanship of Prof. Sukhwant Singh, of the Guru Nanak Dev University ( Amritsar ) Punjab organised the 'Sardar Mahan Singh Deshi Annual Memorial Lecture' on March 31, 2008 . The lecture, “Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and the Revival of Buddhism in India ", was delivered by Dr. J. K. Sharma, Professor of Indian History at Panjab University Chandigarh .

The 'Mahan Singh Deshi Annual Memorial Lecture'is instituted under the Deshian Heritage Endowment established at Guru Nanak Dev University by Prof. (Retd.) Dr. Autar Singh Deshi in the memory of his grandfather S. Mahan Singh Deshi. S. Mahan Singh Deshi lived in California from 1902 to 1945. One of the earlier Punjabi settlers in California , he worked continuously for the social and educational uplift of the diasporas and did a lot of developmental work in Doaba region of Punjab . In his well attended lecture Prof. J. K. Sharma touched upon some of aspects of the philosophy and struggle of Bharat Ratan Baba Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in minute details. He also discussed how it facilitated in the revival of Navayan Buddhism in India for the emancipation and empowerment of the Dalits in particular and the freedom of the country in general. The lecture was well covered by almost all the regional news agencies and papers.

Ambedkartimes.com pays floral tribute to Master Lal Chand Rattan Kadarwalia, president of the Adi-Dharam Mandal branch village Akalianwala, District Moga (Punjab) on his 45th death anniversary (April 9, 2008). Master Ji was a staunch follower of Adi-Dharam religion as well as movement. He belonged to Valmiki caste and was the main activist of the Adi- Dharam movement in the Malwa region of Punjab.

Master Ji wrote two books in vernacular: Azadi Di Daundi (Proclamation of Independence) and Bharam Todd (Misconceptions Denuded). He also wrote and published a book against the use of intoxicants and prepared a manuscript on the life and teachings of Bhagwan Valmik Ji one of the acknowledged Gurus of the Ad- Dharam Mandal. We are proud of Master Lal Chand Rattan Kadarwalia Ji, one of the great aboriginal revolutionaries of the country who contributed significantly for the cause of the community.

We are writing you with heavy heart that some officers of University are scrapping the name of the Champion of Indian Constitution, Bharat Ratan Dr. B. R. Ambedkar from the Technical University Punjab at Jalandhar.

It is pertinent to mention here that the demand for setting up Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Technical University at Jalandhar in Doaba Region of Punjab was first time raised on the occasion of First Punjabi Dalit Sahit Sammelan, held 0n 13, 14, March, 1994 at Phagwara.

After the continuing struggle of the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Technical University Sangharsh Samiti Punjab, our demand to set up a Technical University named after Dr. B. R. Ambedkar was accepted by the then Chief Minister S. Beant Singh on 7th November, 1994. On 17th December, 1996 Chief Minister Smt. Rajinder Kaur Bhattal laid the stone of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Technical University at Jalandhar.

On 24th December, 1996 Punjab Vidhan Sabha unanimously passed the bill of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Technical University Punjab at Jalandhar. Now, the present Government Officers are scrapping the name of "Dr. B. R. Ambedkar" from the Technical University under the pressure of some vested interests.

It is our humble request to you to intervene in the above said demand for the implementation of the decision of former Governments.

Dr. John DayalNational President, All India catholic Union. And United Christian Action Secretary General, All India Christian Council Member, national Integration Council, Government of India, New Delhi, 21st April 2008

The Christian community in India has received with deep sorrow and grief the news of the death last Sunday of Sri Lankan Catholic Fr M X Karunaratnam, Chairman of the North East Secretariat on Human Rights (NESoHR) in the explosion of a remote controlled Claymore mine in close proximity to his residential prayer and counseling centre near Kuzhanthai Jesus Church at Vannivi'laangku'lam. Reports suggest his vehicle, which had broken down when he was on his way back to his residence from Maangku'lam Church, was being towed and he was seated in the driver seat steering it when the mine exploded and a piece of shrapnel hit his head. He died on the spot

Some of us in India knew Fr Karunaratnam, and most of us in the Human rights movement in South Asia had followed his compassionate work with much admiration. His centre was a haven for many.

The Priest’s death comes close to the damage in Lanka air force action to the Mary Statue in the Mada Shrine, also a popular pilgrim site and a safe refuge in the midst of hostilities that continue to ravage that hapless island.

Fr Karunaratnam headed the NESoHR which was set up in July 2004 as part of the 2002 Peace Process; The South Asian civil society movement watched in awe and admiration Fr Karunaratnam’s effort to strengthen the human rights protection mechanisms in the North East of Sri Lanka. He was the one who focused global attention on the recruitment of children by the LTTE. He also criticized the Colombo regime for its violence upon the Tamil people.

We mourn an activist who lived up to his priestly vows of committing his life to the service of the common people, and for peace.

Jalandhar:- Mr. Lachman Birdi and Mrs. Bachin Kaur Birdi of Canada, will pay tributes to Baba Saheb Dr. B. R. Ambedkar on April 14 at 4 PM and celebrate the 117th birth anniversary of the human rights champion. The ceremony will include cake cutting, essay competition, and plays and performances by students of Floret Public School of Ram Nagar, Jalandhar. Mr. and Mrs. Birdi started the cake cutting ceremony fourth years ago and this has now become an annual ceremony in Ram Nagar (Jalandhar).

This is a very exiting year because there are more than five different events organized in Ram Nagar (Jalandhar) alone to celebrate Dr. Ambedkar's life long contributions. On April 13, the Birdi Youth of Ram Nagar celebrating Dr. Ambedkar's life with plays by Bhaji Gursharan Singh, Samrat of street theatre where Minister Avinash is expected to attend as a chief guest.

The Committee of Gurudwara Sahib Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Australia Inc. is going to celebrate the Vaisakhi and Birth Anniversary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on 13 April 2008 at Mel way Reference 7J5 Barry Road near upfield Station. Therefore, all Sangat is requested by the Sabha to grace this occasion with families.

Jalandhar: - The youth of Ram Nagar of Jalandhar came together and formed an ad-hoc committee pay tributes to Baba Saheb Dr. Ambedkar and raise awareness on erosion of education in Punjab. To achieve this, the ad-hoc committee has invited a renowned samart of street play, Gursharan Singh.

We are very pleased that Gurshan Singh and his team have accepted the invitation to join us at the celebrations and do some plays which will convey the essence of Dr. Ambedkar, said R. Birdi of ARV International.

"With the potential to dramatise social, economic and political issues (hardly addressed by popular media) street theatre raises people's consciousness to an extent that the viewers may not do something but it hits their mind and they become aware", said Balbir Kumar Birdi of CR Engineering and one of the main organizers.

The ad-hoc committee intentionally decided to not organize these celebrations under any banner.

Federation of Ambedkarite and Buddhist Organisations UK c cordially invites you to join our Annual Event to pay Homage to our savior and emancipator Dr. B. R. Ambedkar on his 117th Birth Anniversary. On Monday the 14th of April 2008 , 5 pm Sharp At Indian High Commission, London .

You are invited to attend the new family service series starting this month at the temple. The service is designed based on the requests of Buddhists and friends of Buddhism who are beginners as well as the experienced in Buddhist practice. The following items will be included in the one hour program: 1) Offering of flowers and incense. 2) Observance of five precepts 3) Short silent meditation 4) Reading of Buddhist Text 5) Dhamma Talk (25-30 minutes) 6) Meditation of Loving Kindness 7) Remembering loved ones 8) Reinforcing of goals of life 9) Short Blessings by monks Everyone will be sitting on chairs. Please bring your family and any of your friends interested in learning about Buddhism. Please call if you need more information: (196) 371 853

Shri Guru Ravi Dass Sabha congratulates to every one on the 631st Birth Anniversary of Shri Guru Ravi Dass Ji and it will be celebrated at Shri Guru Ravi Dass Temple, Yuba City (California) on SUNDAY of March 02, 2008 . All Sangat is cordially invited by the Sabha.

1. The foundation stone of the Buddha Vihara was laid by H’ble Mr. Rahul Kumar Sherwal from California (USA ) on 17th February, 2008 at Fatehpur (Chhutmalpur) Kalsia highway, Distt- Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh. 2. A grand ceremony was organised at this occasion. The ceremony was started by the BUDDHA VANDANA led by three nos of Monks in a pleasant environment. 3. The message comprising- the need to build such Buddha Viharas as an organ to carry forward Baba Sahib’s mission- sent by H’ble RB Gautam from New Jersey, America was also read by the Chief Guest- H’ble Rahul Kumar Sherwal. 4. The poem- Prayer from Tathagat- written by H’ble RB Gautam was sung collectively by three nos of Buddhists ladies- Mrs. Sushila Bauddha, Mrs. Sheetal Gautam and Ms. Seema Gautam. The viewers were glued and cheered. 5. The prominent persons who present were - Mr. Hari Ram Gautam – State Minister, Uttar Pradesh Govt., Mr. Jai Singh -Film Maker, Mr. Chandra Singh-IAS (Retd), Mr. Gyan Chand- IRS. Etc. 6. A noticeable gathering took part in the ceremony. Food was also served to the public. 7. A Music Party led by Mr. Kitab Singh Bauddha, Firozabad , performed in such a melodious way that the people were stunned. 8. All the Shakti Sadhana Mission and Triple Gem Trust members were present at this holy occasion, namely- Mr. BS Bauddha, Mr. IS Bauddha, Mr. Sudhir Gautam and Mr. CP Bauddha. 9. Anchoring was performed by Mr. Bhupendra Gautam. 10. Vote of thanks was done by Mr. Narendra Gautam. May Lord Buddha bless you all happiness!

As you are aware that the rules for the implementation of Scheduled tribes and traditional forest dwellers (recognition of forest land) Act, 2006 are declared by the central government with some flaws, after a long delay. In the mean time, massive attempts were made by forest officials for the harassment and eviction of forest dwellers from their occupied land, nationally, which is now needed to undo according to the objective of Act. But it is difficult task; the Government policies running under the neo-liberalism are already abdicating its pronounced commitment. It is acquiring the fertile agricultural land and forest land for MNCs and big corporate houses for the special economic zones (SEZ) & the mining purposes, at one hand and the other hand declaring the rules for the implementation of FRA providing legal rights to the tribal over the forest land. The whole exercise is looking ridiculous and contradicting to each other.

Friends, while the conservationists, a section of forest bureaucrats, paper & pulp companies and other wastage interests are campaigning for its non- implementation, only the people’s struggle with the powerful mobilization can employ it in the interest of Tribals. However, after the notification, the act required state governments to constitute committees at different level for the commencement of the Act.

At this juncture, Lok Sangharsh Morcha has decided to hold a series of tribal rallies in Gujarat and Maharashtra for the implementation of FRA. It is started from Vyara; district Tapi on 29 th February, 08 (rally ground is behind DNC market). Twenty thousand participants including the Tribal women are expected to come in this rally from different part of district.

Rally would be followed by other rallies to different districts of Gujarat and Maharashtra like 13 March at Sagbara ( Gujarat) Bhusawal on 28 Feb., Yaval on 3 March, Chopra, Dharangaon, Chalisgaon, Nandurbar, Shahda, Taloda and Shirpur (Maharastra). The condemnation of police firing on tribal held on 13 February at Vijaynagar Taluka ( Gujarat) demanding for expulsion of culprits would be the other major issue of the rally.

The implementation of Fifth schedule of constitution ensuring tribal self rule in Gujarat is also one of the prominent issues.

Anand BalleyIt is very shocking news about Mr. Sita Ram Sheemar who passed away with attack of brain hemorrhage on February 13, 2008 in Toronto . Mr. Sita Ram Sheemar was an elder brother of Mr. Resham Sheemar and Brother-in-law of Mr. Harmesh Sandhi (President Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Ontario ).He was very social active man in Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Ontario .He was only 52 Years old and father of two daughters and son. We all mourn the death of Mr. Sita Ram Sheemar we offer our condolences to the bereaved family.

For share your sympathies with the Sheemar family on this untimely demise of Mr. Sita Ram Sheemar Contact: Mr. Resham Sheemar at 905-890-4517 or Mr. Harmesh Sandhi at 416-669-5334

We are so shocked to hear about the sad demise of Mr. Sita Ram Sheemar who passed away on February 13, 2008 . Mr. Sita Ram Sheemar was a very nice & full of sincere love for every body & also he was very active & dedicated to the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Ontario . Mr. Sita Ram Sheemar was Brother-in-law of Mr. Harmesh Sandhi (President of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Ontario ) & Mr. Ram Sandhi (President of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha Toronto). Words can not express our shock at this great loss. Our deepest sympathies go out to the families of Sheemar & Sandhi. Prem Kumar Chumber (Editor) www.ambedkartimes.com

Sacramento, CA.:- On Feb. 3, the Sikh Temple Sacramento honored Dr. David Hosley, emeritus President and General Manager of PBS/KVIE Sacramento TV Channel 6, for his services to the Sikh community. Darshan Singh Mundy, Vice President (P.R.) welcomed him. Reverend Wadhawa Singh Gill honored him with a Saropa. Chairman, Farjit Singh Nagra, and President, Balbir Singh Dhillon jointly presented a plaque on behalf of the Sikh Community of Greater Sacramento. Amrik Singh Dhugga, Vice President of the Punjabi American Heritage Society of Yuba City, presented a plaque on behalf of the PAHS.

Earlier, Prof. Onkar S. Bindra praised the outstanding, very concise, 3-minute video, MEET THE SIKHS, that Dr Hosley produced in 2005 and which can now be seen on the internet at www.YouTube.com or www.aol.com Dr. Hosley’s statement, “ Their (Sikh’s) story as American immigrants is left out of most textbooks”, proved very valuable in getting “MEET THE SIKHS” on the list of state-approved Supplemental Instructions Materials. Recently, Mr. Jack O’Connell, State Superintendent of Public Instructions, wrote to County and District Superintendents, “I encourage you to make use of this video to inform students about the roles and contributions of Sikhs to the history of California .” Dr Jasbir Singh Kang thanked Dr. Hosley for producing the new 26-minute video, “SIKHS IN AMERICA”, and appreciated Mr. Ted Sibia, a patron, for his valuable web sites, www.sikhpioneers.org .

In his response, Dr Hosley thanked Prof. Bindra and Dr. Kang for encouragement, suggestions and assistance. He mentioned that KVIE has decided to put “Meet the Sikhs” and a bonus video, “Understanding Sikhism” on the DVD entitled “SIKHS IN AMERICA”, making it a 3-in-1. He added that KVIE will supply the DVD free to libraries, colleges, CSUS, UC Berkeley etc. He further added that PBS will telecast the videos throughout the country. Mr. Mohinder Singh Sandhu, Secretary, requested the congregation to buy multiple copies of the DVD and to loan these to their friends, their children’s friends, neighbors, and colleagues at work so they can all view the videos, and to finally gift the DVDs to school teachers.

Ambedkartimes.com congratulates all the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabhas in the entire North America for their great endeavor to celebrate 123 rd Birth anniversary of the founder of the glorious and the first Dalit Movement, popularly known as the Ad Dharm Movement, in Punjab and a renowned Ghadarite Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia who not only envisioned but actually worked for the total emancipation of the Dalits from the clutches of the most oppressive caste based hierarchical social order and their genuine empowerment through their cultural transformation and spiritual regeneration.

In fact, what is more exciting is that it is perhaps for the first time in the history of Dalit diasporas that the 123 rd birth anniversary of Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia, the founder of the Ad Dharm movement, is celebrated at such a grand scale in U.S.A. and Canada. This is a clear indication of the rising level of Dalit consciousness among the community members abroad; quite interestingly a large majority of them also come from the very region to which Babu Ji belonged. Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia’s birth anniversary is celebrated along with the independence celebrations & birth anniversary of Km. Mayawati Ji

Ambedkartimes.com pleads for (1) the declaration of official holiday in the name of Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia , (2 ) naming of I.T.I at Garhshankar after his name and (3) celebrating his birthday as an Ad Dharm day .

Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia was born on January 14, 1886 in a Chamar family in village Mugowal, District Hoshiarpur, Punjab . His father had a business of selling hides. In 1909, Mangoo Ram immigrated to America where he came in close contact with the Gadhar Party (a militant nationalist organisation). On his return home in 1925, he started organizing Scheduled Castes against the system of untouchability and founded the Ad Dharm movement. In January 1928, he led a deputation of 150 prominent Ad Dharmis to the Simon Commission and gave memorandum for equal rights for the Dalits. In 1932, he also met the Lothian Committee at Lahore asserting that Dalits were neither Sikhs, Hindus, Christians nor Muslims. He reiterated the fact that they were, in fact, the indigenous people of India whose religion was Ad Dharm. He also sent telegrams during the Roundtable Conferences in London (1930-32) pledging Ad Dharm support for Dr. B. R. Ambedkar as the leader of the untouchables in India instead of M. K. Gandhi. In 1946, he was elected to the Punjab Legislative Assembly and remained in legislature till 1952. On 25 July 1976 , he was invited as a Chief Guest by Ad Dharm Brotherhood, UK , at the Ad Dharm Golden Jubilee Celebrations. Ad Dharm Brotherhood, UK honored him with a pension of Rs.100 per month which he received till his death. On 15 August, 1972, Indira Gandhi, the then Prime minister of India, honored him with a Tamra Patra and a pension of Rs.200 per month for the services he rendered in the Gadhar Party during India's struggle for freedom. He died on April 22, 1980.

The birth anniversary celebration will be held on Sunday January 27 th 2008 at Shri Guru Ravi Dass Temples except Shri Guru Ravi Dass Sabha Bay Area and this Sabha will celebrate at Newark Pavilion 6430, Thornton Avenue Newark ( California ). All sangat is requested by the Shri Guru Ravidass Societies to participate in this celebration with families.

The Ad Dharm movement gave a distinct social identity to the socially excluded people of the state who came to have their own religion (Ad Dharm), their own Gurus (Sat Gurus Ravidass, Kabir and Valmiki Ji) their own symbols (Sohangh and Har), their own way of address (Jai Guru Dev and Dhan Guru Dev) and their own ardas (Nam Tero Aarti and Jo Bole so Nirvaih, Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj ki Jai). Dr. Ronki Ram

Chandigarh : - Dalit Chetna Manch Punjab (Regd.) organised a seminar on "Sources of Dalit Consciousness in Punjab " at Mohali on January 20, 2008 . Speaking on the topic of the seminar Dr. Ronki Ram of the Department of Political Science, Panjab University emphasised on the role of the Ad Dharm movement of Punjab , founded by Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia, in the generation of Dalit consciousness in the state. He said this movement gave a distinct social identity to the socially excluded people of the state who came to have their own religion (Ad Dharm), their own Gurus (Sat Gurus Ravidass, Kabir and Valmiki Ji) their own symbols (Sohangh and Har), their own way of address (Jai Guru Dev and Dhan Guru Dev) and their own ardas (Nam Tero Aarti and Jo Bole so Nirvaih, Sri Guru Ravidass Maharaj ki Jai). In addition, he refered to the role played by various Ravidass Deras in the consolidation of the Ravidassi Samaj in Punjab , particularly Dera Sach Khand Ballan. He also highlighted the role played by the Dalit Diaspora in the creation of Dalit Consciousness in the state. Organisation of International Dalit conferences in Europe and North America, construction of Ravidass Temples in different cities abroad, launching of web sites, newspapers and magazines are some of the most prominent activities of the Dalit Diaspora.

Mr. Sri Ram Arash, a noted poet of the region, deliberated in detail on the contribution of the Bhakti movement and the Gurus in the proliferation of Dalit consciousness in Punjab . He said though religion has been the prime cause of untouchability and casteism in our country, but it was also used to cut the roots of this very social evil. Mr. Shamsher Purkhalvi, President of the Dali Chetna Manch, said that lack of proper leadership and social consciousness could be held responsible for the sorry state of affairs of the Dalits and the only way out for its peaceful resolution is the articulation and proper dissemination of Dalit consciousness in the state and the entire country. He assured that his Manch would continue to struggle towards that end. Mr. Bhupinder Singh of the Manch read the annual report of the organisation and underlined the fact that by now the Manch has spent about 60 lacks rupees on the development of the Dalits.

Mr. Jasjit Singh Banni, Chairman of Punjab State Co-operative Bank, was the chief guest on the occasion. In his concluding remarks he appreciated the efforts of the Manch and the leadership provided by Mr. Purkhalvi. He said that social service is the supreme and respectable service towards the mankind. If this service is done towards the downtrodden, its importance increases even further many folds. He also released the New Year Calendar of the Dalit Chetna Manch.

The past weekend turned out to be full of celebrations and events in the Vancouver area .

(Vancouver): Saturday, January 26, marked the 59 th Republic day of India and it was observed by flag-hoisting ceremony and reception hosted by the Consul General of India, Shri Ashok Kumar. The ceremony included consul general reading President Pratibha Patil’s address to the nation that she made on the eve of the republic day.

While Indians and persons of Indian origin were cherishing Indian’s Republic Day Celebrations, a number of Christian missionaries were celebrating Mission Fest 2008 at the Vancouver Convention and Trade Centre, just a few meters away from the consulate general premises. The Mission Fest is based on the principle of local churches working together to reach out to the world. To reach out to the world, the Surrey-based Dalit Freedom Network screened a film, “India’s Hidden Journey”- showing child labor, trafficking of young girls under the guise of temple prostitutes, and other forms of subjugation faced mostly by Dalits in India. While the organizers acknowledged that India has made significant changes and continues to make progress in many fronts, mind sets of a lot of people still needs to be changed.

On the following day, members of Chetna Association of Canada and Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Vancouver observed India ’s Republic Day and birthdays of Chief Minister Mayawati and the late Ghadri Baba Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia. A one-hour film on the achievements of CM Mayawati was screened and a message written by Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia was read at the Dr. Ambedkar Library in Burnaby , located in the premises of the Shri Guru Ravidass Community Centre at 7271 Gilley Avenue .

According to Prof. GS Ball, “Babu Mangu Ram Mugowalia represents a rare example among the revolutionaries Ghadrites philosophy. In those dark days, it was rare for an untouchable to understand the essence of revolution against imperialism. But he rose to the occasion and proved his mettle. He joined the Ghaddar Party when he went to California (U.S.A.) in 1909 A.D. As its active member, Babu Mangu Ram Mugowalia; it appears desired an establishment of society which must be based on Equality. And he saw one being fought for by the Ghadrites as they had abolished all social distinctions among themselves first-which, perhaps, is not the practice with the modern community or who profess change of the sort. As Babu Mangu Ram Mugowalia spoke of the Ghaddar Party, "It was a new society; we were all treated as equals".

On Sunday January 27 in the evening, the Republic Day celebrations were hosted by All India Congress Association of Vancouver ( Canada ) at the Fraserview Banquet Hall. The reception stated by recital of Indian and Canadian national Anthems, opening address by Gopal Lohia, and cultural performances. The ceremony also included the Consul General of India, Shri Ashok Kumar, garlanding the portrait of Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar, Father of Indian constitution. The consul general was joined by the office bearers of All India Congress Association, Chetna Association of Canada, and the Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Vancouver . Number of key dignitaries who took part in these celebrations included MP Sukh Dhaliwal, MLA Harry Bains, MLA Dave Hayer, and Councilor Sav Dhaliwal. Arun Suri, chairperson of this organization expressed his gratitude to all for joining in these celebrations.

Seeing the work and vision being acknowledged by the mainstream organization was a powerful experience for many.

“I think this is a remarkable gesture and step taken by the Indian National Congress of Vancouver to acknowledged and pay tributes to Dr. Ambedkar on the Republic Day. I think this is the first time it has happened in Canada where a non-Dalit took this type of initiative”, said Bill Basra, president of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Vancouver .

Harbir Batra, General Secretary of the Indian National Congress (Vancouver) sees it as everyone’s responsibility to pay tributes to national Fathers such as Dr. Ambedkar.

“It was our moral duty to pay regards and tributes to our learned great leader with whose efforts and contributions to Indian polity we are getting purity in our society day by day. The name of Baba Sahib will always shine in the sky of India as father of the constitution which paved path for equality and eradication of social evils”, said Batra.

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( January 31, 2008 )

World Religion Day Celebration 2008

Dr. Ambedkar Mission ( Toronto ) takes part in the World Religion Day. Ven Gayanosiri Chief Abbot of Indian Buddhist Temple (Established under Ambedkar Mission Toronto ) did a Buddhist prayer, along with a speech on Buddhism. Anand, Punam , and Benjamin Balley and Jagiri and Shinder Bance attended this celebration. Along with the Mayor of Pickering , Shashi Bhatia, Toronto Police Chief and the Indian Consulate General. Including Joanie Gerter, Nick Preston, Donald Igbokwe and Perry Halls, who are member of the organizing committee.

Sacramento : - Dr. Sawraj Singh is a well know cardio-vascular surgeon and a prolific writer, columnist and social scientist. He is chairman, Washington State N etwork for Human Rights. He has authored more than nineteen books on South Asian politics and religions. He believes that South Asia has a lot to give to the world in restructuring international human relations.

During his three day tour in California , Dr. Sawraj Singh had a very hectic schedule. On Saturday, January 19, 2008 , he joined wedding ceremony of Sabrina K. Dhillon with Parmjit S. Bains in Sikh Temple El Sobrante ( California ) . Sabrina is the daughter of Harbhajan Singh Dhillon, one of the popular Punjabi poets of California . Addressing a distinguished gathering in El Sabrante Gurdwara, Dr. Swaraj Singh explained meanings of ‘Shabad’ recited on performing wedding ceremonies.

In the afternoon, he was invited by Amritsar Times Newsgroup in San Jose , California for joining the discussion on “Sikh Principles and the Menace of Globalization” Later; he paid a visit to the historical Sikh Gurudwara in Stockton . On Sunday, Dr. Sawraj Singh addressed the congregation in Gurudwara West Sacramento. Then, he proceeded to Yuba City to attend a meeting of the Punjabi Sahit Sabha California .

Posted on www.ambedlartimes.com ( January 25, 2008 )

FOUNDATION OF BUDDHA VIHARA WILL BE LAID BY SHERWAL

Respected all Namo Buddhay! Jai Bheem!!

1. The programme of the Foundation of Buddha Vihar has been fixed now. It is on Sunday, 17 Feb, 2008 . 2. It is to be made on Chhutmalpur (Fatehpur) – Kalsia Road , Distt- Saharanpur, (UP) 3. In addition, An English Medium Public School plus a Bauddhacharya School will be a part of this holy place. 4. THE FOUNDATION STONE OF THIS BUDDHA VIHAR WILL BE LAID BY OUR CHIEF GUEST, HONUORABLE RAHUL KUMAR SHERWAL FROM CALIFORNIA , ( USA ) . 5. A grand ceremony will be held on this auspicious occasion. So, all are cordially invited to attend the function. 6. I once again thank you all for your liberal generosity to this noble work. THIS IS OUR DONORS SUCCESS. BUDDHA VIHAR IS ESSENTIAL TO CARRY FORWARD BABA SAHEB’S MISSION . May Lord Buddha bless you all pleasures and happiness! With deep bow down,

Dr. Ambedkar was one of the illustrious sons of the India who struggled throughout his life to restructure the Indian Society on humanitarian and egalitarian principles. He was not only a great national leader but also a distinguish scholar of international repute. He not only led various social movements for the upliftment of the depressed sections of the Indian Society but also contributed to the understanding of the Socio-Economic and Political problems of India through his scholarly works.

It is pertinent to mention here that the question of naming the new Bus Terminal of Phagwara after the name of Dr. Ambedkar was raised by Advocate Virdi in the Panchayat Samiti Phagwara's meeting, held on 23rd November, 2007 under the chairperson Smt. Krishna Kainth, which was unanimously passed by the whole house and the same was supported by the three dozen leaders of social, religious bodies, members of the Phagwara MC Councilors, Village Panchs and Namberdars and Social Organisations.

I nsight Editorial Collective cordially invites you to the release of the next issue of 'Insight: Young Voices' on 3rd February (Sunday). The release will be followed by a workshop on 'Dalit Students' Politics: Challenges and Directions', where Dalit student activists from different universities/institutions will share their campus experiences as well as deliberate on the different issues concerning Dalit students.

The recent report of Prof. S.K. Thorat Committee exposing the caste discrimination faced by the Dalit students in All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) and complete inaction from the Indian Government has reinforced the need for a vibrant and autonomous Dalit students' activism. Dalit movement has a long history of youth participation. However, due to various reasons, a strong Dalit students' politics, that could have a major impact both inside as well as outside the campus, has not emerged. Though every educational campus of this country is simmering with Dalit Consciousness, yet it will take some time and huge efforts to channelise Dalit students' energies towards our common cause.

Being itself the product of Dalit students' activism, 'Insight: Young Voices' is committed towards a strong and autonomous Dalit student politics. Apart from regular articles and interviews on various issues, the cover story of our next issue of 'Insight: Young Voices' tries to map the emergence and role of Dalit students' politics in Jawaharlal Nehru University, Hyderabad Central University and Meerut University (UP), as these have become one of the most important centers of Dalit students' mobilisation and articulation.

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( January 31, 2008 )

SCREENING OF FILM “KAMMO” AND A DISCUSSION ON SOCIAL ISSUES

(1) Prabhjot Sandhu- reads a letter in which an "unborn girl" pleads her parents to not abort her just because she is a girl. Written to her parents (2) Prabhjot Sandhu, along with other members, displays poster with a letter from an "unborn girl" (3) Gurdeep Bhullar receives award of recognition from Chetna Association of Canada for his film "Kammo".

Photos: Paramjit Kainth & Report by Jai Birdi

Vancouver (Canada): C hetna Association of Canada hosted a function on January 12 at the Dr. Ambedkar Library (Guru Ravidass Community Centre) in Burnaby where Gurdeep Bhullar’s film Kammo on female infanticide was shown; Shaheed Bhagat Singh’s calendar produced by Gurpreet Singh and Radio India painted by Shital Anmol was distributed, and a fictional letter of unborn female child was read by a teenage girl, Prabhjot Sandhu. The fictional letter was written by Dr. Baldev Singh, Sr. Medical Officer and Dr. Gurminder Sidhu of Mohali and was sent to Chetna Association of Canada by Dr. Brij Lal, also of Mohali.

After the film, a discussion was held on the following issues:

Female infanticide

Role of Shaheed Mewa Singh and Komagatamaru

Immigration and refugee policies and challenges faced by Lamber Singh, and

Indian constitution and the upcoming republic day celebrations.

Gopal Lohia and Vinay Sharma, representing the Indian National Congress (I) also took part in the discussion and announced their plans to dedicate republic day to Dr. Ambedkar, father and brain behind making of the Indian constitution. These celebrations are to be held at the Fraser view Banquet Hall in Vancouver .

Surinder Ranga, president of Chetna Association of Canada and Bill Basra, president of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver ) also announced their plans to celebrate the Indian Republic Day on January 27 at 1 pm at the Dr. Ambedkar Library in Burnaby .

Paramjit Kainth, community activist and a director of Chetna Association of Canada denounced the practice of female infanticide and sang a song dedicated to all women.

Gurdeep Bhullar, who was honored for making the film Kammo and educating communities on the issue of female infanticide in India and in Canada , was very humble with his comments and said he had only done what was his duty. Bhullar also highlighted a need to produce more film on other social issues.

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( January 18, 2008 )

Mr. Jai Birdi of Vancouver Honored by four organizations

Report by: Harry Kainth and Photos by Paramjit Kainth

Vancouver : On Sunday January 6, 2008 Mr. Jai Birdi of Vancouver , Canada , was honored by a number of organizations for his sincere services to the community. Birdi was also honored on his advancement in his care and his recent appointment as a regional manager with crown agency, Community Living British Columbia. Mr. Jai Birdi joined public service approximately twenty years ago.

We had been thinking of honoring for long time, but this was a more appropriate “timing to celebrate Jai’s contributions”, said Bill Basra, president of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver ). Number of organizations and individuals joined Basra in showing their appreciation for the work Mr. Jai Birdi has been doing. Among these organizations were: Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha ( Vancouver , BC ), Shri 108 Sant Sarwan Dass Charitable Trust ( Western Canada ), Indian Buddhist Society (Vancouver), and Chetna Association of Canada. Jai was presented with a plaque of honor in the morning during the Sunday gathering at the Guru Ravidass Community Centre in Burnaby and a dinner was organized in the evening at the Royal Banquet Hall in Vancouver .

MLA Raj Chauhan, Burnaby City Councilor Sav Dhaliwal, Famous Radio host Mr. Gurpreet Singh, Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha committee members and more than 200 well known people from the Community were present to congratulate and show their appreciation to Jai Birdi.

“Jai Birdi is a very well known and a much respected person in the Community and we all feel very proud to be associated with him”, said Paramjit Kainth, a strong community activist and former general secretary of Chetna Association of Canada.

Some of the projects that Jai undertook and involved the community included in completing these projects included:

(1) Installing Dr. Ambedkar photos and his collected works at the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and University of Victoria. (2) Coordinating International Dalit Conference in Vancouver (3) Installing Bust of Dr. Ambedkar at the Simon Fraser University ( Vancouver ). The Bust was donated by the Dr. Ambedkar group of UK and the base was donated by Bill Basra. (4) Presented Dr. Ambedkar Portrait to the City of Burnaby . The painting, by Shital Anmol, is now installed in the deliberation room at the City Hall. (5) Facilitated presentation of Dr. Ambedkar portrait to the Consulate general of India . The painting by Shital Anmol was donated by Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Vancouver .

On behalf of all organizations and his friends, we wish very best to Jai Birdi and congratulate him and his family on his promotion.

“We are very thankful to the people who helped us arrange this event for Mr. Jai Birdi: Bill Basra, Varinder Banger, Satish Aujla, Harjinder Mall (Golden) and Kamlesh Ahir”, said Paramjit Kainth, who was also the master of ceremony for the celebrations.

Bengal Dalit Cultural Identity is a separate and unique one because of the reason that the Buddhist kings of the Pala dynasty ruled Bengal successively for four hundred years at a stretch from 750AD to 1155AD. Bangla Dalit Sahitya Sanstha is an organization which has been working for last sixteen years in the field of Dalit literary and cultural movement in the state of West Bengal . It has been working striving to the formation of their own cultural identity. It has its members all over the state. It has celebrated the SIXTEENTH SANGITI in a daylong program in the Bengal Traditional Sports Foundation, Salt Lake , Kolkata, on the 25th December through different activities. It needs be highlighted that there had been the celebrations of four SANGITIS in ancient India by the Buddhist rulers. The term SANGITI was adopted from the Buddhist literature. The sangiti means the conference. Why sangiti is on 25 th of December every year is because of the fact that on this particular date of 1927, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar burnt the Manusmriti along with his thousand and thousand followers. Dr. Bikram Sarkar and Dr. Debi Chatterjee were invited for opening and to be the guest-in-honor of the function. Both of them delivered most affluent and encouraging speech to the audience.

The function was opened by offering the garlands to the portrait of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar by different dignitaries present in the occasion. This year a special care was taken so that all the poets and poetesses present in the function took part in their self-expression and significantly the death of the Dalits in Singur and Nandigram of West Bengal came to the surface. Amongst all others Kalyani Thakur, Manju Bala, Sukanta Mandal, Samudra Biswas, Sunil Kumar Das, Bimalendu Halder, Amar Biswas, Shashi Bhushan Poddar, Ashutosh Biswas, Anilkrishna Mallick, Debdas Majumdar, Sujata Biswas, Raju Das, Jyoti Ghosh, Bimal Biswas, Sadhan Naskar, etc had elevated their own voice. Nakul Mallick had read out a number of selective Dalit poems published from time to time in his own edited little magazine ;Dalit Kantha’.

A number of Dalit issues including the Dalit messiah were put under the secret cards for the extempore speech of the participants and some of topics beautifully told by the speakers. In Bengal Guruchand Thakur, a Dalit messiah was born in 1846 who made a lot of things for the social, political, economic and educational upliftment of the downtrodden. In the year 1907, he put a representation to the then Governor of Bengal Assam Mr. David Hare for the employment of the educated Dalit pupils and in pursuance Kumud Ranjan Mallick, Shashi Bhushan Thakur, Tarini Charan Bala had been recruited in the Govt. jobs. This year the centenary of the Dalit participation in Govt. machinery is celebrated in the annual sangiti of Bangla Dalit Sahitya Sanstha. Another point of discussion in the open session was about Dalit Empowerment in India and the topic was advocated in an illusory manner by Shashi Bhushan Poddar. During the Pala dynasty of Bengal eighty four Buddhist Siddhas became famous in the field of literary activities. They had created the Charyas of Bengali literature which had been totally lost and nothing of it was available in Bengal . In the year 1907, Haraprasad Shastri a renowned scholar of Bengal discovered this lost literature of the downtrodden from national archive of Nepal . This year in the sixteenth sangiti the BDSS has celebrated the centenary year of the discovery of the Charyas. Manohar Mouli Biswas, the General Secretary of Bangla Dalit Sahitya Sanstha spoke on the centenary celebration of the discovery of the early Bengal literature.

‘Is There Dalit Writing in Bangla?’ is an article of Meenakshi Mukherjee published in a recent volume of the Economic and Political Weekly. The house extended their thanks to the writer. Manoranjan Byapari, a reputed Dalit story writer is also thank-worthy for his supplementations.

The opening session was presided over by Dr. Gunadhar Barman, the president of the sanstha and it was anchored by Samudra Biswas, asstt. secretary. The Kavi-sammelan was anchored by Sukanta Mandal and Kalyani Thakur. The closing session was presided over by Prof. Dr. Indra Mohan Mondal. The daylong program ended with a shuti-natak ( two character drama), ‘Anarjyabarata’. It was performed by Bhargonath Bhattacharjya and his wife. The Anarjyabarata is an elaboration of the poem ‘Hidimba- Ghatotkoch Sanglap’ of Manohar Mouli Biswas which was earlier published in a Bengali magazine from Canada .

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( January 14, 2008 )

JANAB AZAD JALANDHARY’S WIFE PASSED AWAY

We are much shocked to hear about the sad demise of the great Poet and Author, Janab Azad Jalandhary's wife (Gurmeeto Azad). She passed away on Sunday morning of February 10, 2008

We shall remember her as a kind and considerate woman. We know that words can’t console Janab Azad Jalandhary in his deep sorrow. Only time can heal the wound caused by the cruel hand of death. Our hearts are full of sympathy for the Janab Azad Jalandhary Sahib family at this sorrow.

It is a shock to hear about the sad demise of Miss. Affvan Bagha D/o Mr. Dhayan Singh Bagha. Miss Affvan was 21 years old and had a diploma in Laboratory. She died in an accident in Jalandhar ( Punjab) India on February 1st, 2008 when she was going home with her sister Miss Sujan Bagha on moped. Miss Sujan Bagha, who is law graduate, is admitted in the hospital. The parents Mrs. Nirmal Kaur Bagha (Mother) & Mr. Dhayan Singh Bagha (Father) are in Sacramento ( California).

Mr. Dhayan Singh Bagha can be reached at Cell. 916 806 6010 & Home 916 369 8140.
I on my own behalf and on the behalf of www.ambedkartimes.com share sympathies with the Bagha family on this untimely demise of Miss. Affvan Bagha and pray for Miss. Sujan Bagha. May she recover quickly.

On behalf of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada, we extend our deepest sympathy for Bagha family for the loss of their beloved daughter Miss Affvan Bagha. We also pray to Lord Buddha to bless Miss Sujan Bagha for her quick recovery from her injuries. The loss of Mr. Dhyan Bagha's daughter is not a loss for his family alone; it is a loss for the whole community. Miss Affvan Bagha was highly educated and we can imagine how much hard work it takes for parents to raise a child to this level.

We know Mr. Dhyan Bagha since he was living in Toronto , Canada . Also, on behalf of all those in Toronto who know Mr. Dhyan Bagha, we extend our condolences to Bagha family and well wishes for Miss Sujan Bagha's recovery.

Members of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto , Canada

Raj Kumar, Mohan Verdi, Hardev Bangar, Parkash Rahul, Gurbax Rai

The sad news of Miss. Affvan Bagha’s (D/o Dhayan Singh Bagha) death was a big shock to all of us. We know that Bagha family really have suffered a terrible and cruel blow. Our hearts are full of sympathy for them at this sorrow.C. L. Chumber and family, Jalandhar ( Punjab ), Mrs. Kamlesh Ahir (Vencouver, Canada)

Late Narender Singh Hira

Narender Singh Hira
(Pappu Seth)

I on my own behalf and on the behalf of <ambedkartimes.com> share sympathies with the Chumber family on the untimely demise of Narender Singh Hira (Pappu Seth Punjabi), brother-in-law of Mr. Prem Kumar Chumber (Editor:ambedkartimes.com), on December 30, 2007. Mr. Hira was forty four years old. The Bhog ceremony will be held on Jan. 8th, 2008 in Maharashtra, India.

Ronki Ram (Dr.)Panjab University Chandigarh (India)

Condolences on demise of Narender Singh Hira
(Pappu Seth)

My dear brother Prem Chumber and Family,

We are so shocked to hear about the sad demise of Narender Singh Hira who was well known name by Pappu Seth. Please convey our sincere condolences to your wife and Hira family members, for whom this loss must be quite unbearable. This is a very big unbearable tragedy for all of us and your in-laws because he was the only son and brother of two sisters in Hira family.

We shall always cherish sweet memories of your dear brother-in-law who was a very fine man and full of sincere love for everybody.

We know that words cannot console you, your wife, daughter, son and Hira family in deep sorrow. Only time can heal the wound caused by the cruel hand of death

Our hearts are full of sympathy for you, your wife, and children as well as for Hira family members.

My both daughters went to the funeral and we all will be there at final ceremony with Hira family. If there is anything we can do for your in-laws, please do not hesitate to write or call me. Your loss is indeed our loss.

C. L. Chumber and family, Jalandhar (Punjab)

Dear Mr. P. K. Chumber and Family,

I share sympathy with you and your family on the sad demise of Narender Singh Hira passed on December 30, 2007.

Dr. S. L. Virdi Advocate, Phagwara, Punjab. Mb. 98145 17499

We are all so deeply upset to read from Ambedkartimes untimely demise of Narender Singh Hira, Brother-in-law of Ambedkartimes Editor's Mr. Prem Kumar Chumber. On behalf of Ambedkar Mission Toronto (Canada) and Balley Family share sympathies with the Chumber Family.

Anand Balley, Ambedkar Mission Toronto (Canada)

On behalf of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada; we extend our condolences on the untimely loss of Narender Singh Hira. It is hard to believe that a professional sportsman like him has so short life. We feel sorry for Hira family and extend our condolences. While family is dealing with unexpected death of their love one; we pray to Lord Buddha to bless them with courage to deal with the tough time and shower peace on Narender Singh Hira's departed soul.

Raj Kumar Oshoraj, Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada

I am very sad to know the untimely demise of your brother-in-law (Narender Singh Hira) through ambedkartimes.com and I feel its unbearable loss to you and Hira’s family and our community also. On behalf of all the members of Dr Ambedkar Weaker Section Welfare Society, I express sympathy with you and Hira family and pay our tributes to demise Ambedkarite, social worker and duteous person.

I really feel very sad to know about the news of Sh. Narender Singh Hira Ji's sudden death. I went to the residence of your relative Sh. Surinder Mohan Bhatia at Jalandhar for condolences with the printouts of four news papers regarding demise of Sh. Narender Singh Hira. Our hearts are full of sympathy for you and your in-laws at this sorrow.

Virender Singh Gill
www.bhagwanvalmiki.com

More condolences on demise of Narender Singh Hira

There are no words to express grief at the sad demise of your brother-in-law. We just came to know about his death from your website/friends. Our hearts are full of sympathy for you, your wife, and your in-laws at this sorrow. Please let us know if we can be of any help.

Thank you very much to all of you who expressed sympathies on the demise of Narender Singh Hira

Thank you very much to all for your expression of sincere sympathies in the great loss that Chumber family and Hira family have suffered in the death of Narender Singh Hira. I on my own behalf and on the behalf of Hira family really appreciate the sentiments expressed by you all. It’s a great consolation to know that we have many friends/organizations like you all who are with us at this moment when the cruel hand of death has snatched away the only son of Hira family.

Prem Kumar Chumber (Editor, www.ambedkartimes.com)

Posted on January 08, 2008

Mrs. Dhano Chand passed away

Fresno: - Mr. Bobby Prem Lal Birdi’s grand mother (Mrs. Dhano Chand) passed away on December 29, 2007 in Fresno (California). She was born on April 9 1922 in India. Mrs. Chand was a prominent member of the Shri Guru Ravidass Community. Her son Makhan Ram Birdi passed away just six months prior in June 2007.

www.ambedkartimes is very shocked to hear about the sad demise of Mrs. Dhano Chand. Our hearts are full of sympathy for Birdi family.

BABU MANGU RAM MUGOWALIA’S
SON BABU CHATTAR SAIN PASSED AWAY

Jalandhar (Ambedkartimes.com News Bureau):- It is very shocking news to the Ad Dharm World that Babu Chattar Sain S/O Baba Babu Mangu Ram Mugowalia Ex M.L.A, a great freedom fighter & founder of the Ad Dharm Movement Punjab, who passed away with attack of brain hemorrhage at 11:30 on November 22, 2007 in CMC Hospital, Ludhiana (Punjab) India. Babu Chattar Sain was retired Assistant Registrar from Co-operative Societies Punjab; Chairman of Babu Mangu Ram Mugowalia Memorial Trust, Trustee Shri Guru Ravi Dass I.T.I Phagwara (Kapurthala) Punjab & General Secretary of Punjab Pentioners Association Welfare Union. He was very active social man in Ad Dharm World & other social circles. He was 70 years old & father of three sons & one daughter. His all children are married & well known/well settled. We all mourn the death of Babu Chattar Sain and offer our condolences to the bereaved family.
The Antam Ardas/Bhog ceremony will be held on Sunday December 9, 2007 at Ward Number 12, Biram Pur Road, Garhshankar (Hoshiarpur) Punjab (India).

Ambedkartimes.com is distressed to know the sad demise of Shanti Devi w/o Shri Ram Parkash Attar, Retd. District Kanugo and mother-in-law of Mr. C. L. Chumber Chief Editor of Kaumi Udarian (Jalandhar) resident of Jandiala Guru (Amritsar) who died on December 5, 2007

The Antam Ardas/Bhog will be held on Sunday, December 16, 2007 at Jandiala Guru (Amritsar) Punjab. Shanti Devi was a social lady & she helped many community members in her social life time & her social contribution to the upliftment of the community would be remembered for ever.

We all mourn the death of this noble woman and offer our condolences to the bereaved family.

Mrs. Nooran Rani Dharamsot (Mother of Mr. Om Parkash Kamal Banjara Times’s editor) passed away on January 24; 2008. www.ambedkartimes.com is very shocked to hear about the sad demise of Mrs. Nooran Rani Dharamsot. Our hearts are full of sympathy for Dharamsot family.

Prem Kumar Chumber
www.ambedkartimes.com

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com ( January 31, 2008 )

Report on the Seminar Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, Dalits and Globalization organised by GSVS and NCDHR

Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia, who was also an NRI at one point of time and was in the forefront of the Ghaddar movement and later on became the founder father of the famous Ad Dharm movement in Punjab, started his struggle for the emancipation of the Dalits by establishing his own school where Dalit children were provided free education in a
caste free environment at his own village itself. Dr. Ronki Ram

Chandigarh(Ambedkartimes.com News Bureau):- Gramin Shikshan Vikas Sanghathan (GSVS) and National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights (NCDHR) organized seminar on Bharat Rattan Baba Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, Dalits and Globalization at Muktsar (Punjab), Sunday December 9, 2007. In the morning session of the seminar issues relating to the problems of rural education, especially among the Dalits, and how to solve them constructively were taken up seriously. Mr. Vishwanath Meshram of Calgary (Canada) initiated the discussion with his opening detailed inaugural note on the current state of affairs of Dalit/rural education in the state and in general. He also related his experiences of the rural education in Maharashtra and the present situation over there. He asked the participants, mostly from the school and college education field, to pinpoint the main causes of neglect and how they can be covered up. What has gone wrong with the rural education system and how that can be rectified? The inaugural address was followed by a long discussion. Mr. Basant Singh Raju, former teacher, touched upon various crucial aspects of the problem. He said that the govt. is often remains indifferent to the rural education. Students belonging to the upper castes complete their syllabus much in time, whereas Dalit students’ study starts two to four months after the actual session begins. It was so because that won’t get books (to be supplied by the govt welfare department) at the beginning of the academic session. He also underlined that most of the teachers in village schools belonged to the Dalit community. They were also an exploited lot. Vacant posts are not filled for years. It is suggested to fill these posts on ad hock basis. Mr. R. Bharti another schoolteacher also touched upon various similar issues. He said though books from the welfare dept. would be available in time, but it is the teachers who deliberately delayed in to bring them. Master Harbans Singh Dish held parents and teachers also responsible for the sorry state of affairs in rural education. He said 25% students dropped from first to fifth class. Those who reached up to 8th standard majority of them pass the examination by cheating because there is pressure to pass every one who sits for 5th class examination. Principal Jagroop Singh Roop told that is lack of assertion, which is the main reason behind the poor performance of the Dalit community students. Mr. Surinder Singh talked about the stereotyped teaching techniques. Mr. Sham Lal, Principal of a senior secondary school in the region, suggested to adopt poor students as a way to improve the lot of the students belonging to Dalit community. Principal Mool Chand discussed in detail many more aspects of the deteriorating rural education. He emphasised on the need of making Dalits self-sufficient in order to provide good education to the children. Mr. Sukhdev Ram exhorted the NRI Dalit brothers to come forward to help their community build their own education system independent of the prevailing one that would also facilitate in building the self-esteem of the community. He also talked about establishing village level Dalit committees to look after the education of the children of the community. Other prominent speakers were Mr. Mohan Lal Phillauria, Mr. Rajesh Kumar and Mr. Ram Prasad Bhoriwal.

The second session started after the community lunch. This session was devoted to summing up and formulating suggestions as what is to be done to improve the state-of-affair of the rural education. Mr. Roshan Chumber of Calgary, who was also one of the organisers of the seminar, laid stress on confining to the main focus of the meet and to be specific on what we want to do. He said NRI’s help would definitely be there, but more in terms of time and manpower we have to depend our community fellow back home in Punjab. Mr. Meshram, the main brain behind the seminar spoke at length summarising the discussion and elaborating on what to be done. At this level many other participants also gave the opinions: infrastructures need to be provided at the village schools, enough recruitments are to made, parents should spare more time, since majority of the Dalit students come from poor families they do not find right type of environment to study at home, so there should be some community centres in each locality in the villages to provide them conducive environment for the study etc. etc. Prof. Gurnam Singh Muktsar assured his full support and praised the efforts of the organisers.

Dr. Ronki Ram, the chief guest on the occasion, gave his concluding remarks. He congratulated the organisers for their efforts to highlight the problems of the rural education how it affects the Dalit students the most. He stressed upon the need of effective networking among the various Dalit organisations and activists to revive the already much deteriorated system by taking up the matter with the right authorities and also at the community level. He said that it is a very positive trend that Dalit NRI brothers have started showing concern towards education. No community can rise without receiving education. He also reiterated on the fact that we do not need education as such; we need right type of education to become conscious of our rights and to stand on our feet. He reminded how Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia, who was also an NRI at one point of time and was in the forefront of the Ghaddar movement and later on became the founder father of the famous Ad Dharm movement in Punjab, started his struggle for the emancipation of the Dalits by establishing his own school where Dalit children were provided free education in a caste free environment at his own village itself.

This is a most urgent appeal for your intervention to prevent further bloodshed of Christians in Orissa on the eve of Christmas.

I have just got the following message from Church members in Orissa, specially from Father Rabby [Phone number 06849-249872]

Two Christians have been shot and injured, many Christian shops destroyed and Christmas Pandal razed in the area of Bamunigham, District Kandhamal, Orissa on the eve of Christmas.

I am told that one Lokhanand, a known fundamentalist political activist of the area, has been warning Christians not to celebrate Christmas in any way.

Today he led a mob of over 100 persons, many of whom were armed with guns and sharp weapons, to attack the Christmas celebrations and prayers taking place in a Pandal set up in the area.

The mob shot at the people, injuring two most critically. They destroyed shops and the Pandal.

The people fear the worst.

I implore you to urge the Chief Minister and the state authorities to act expeditiously to avert further tragedy.

Thank you and God blessJohn Dayal

Posted on December 25, 2007

"The Fifth Cup"

Davinder Prasad

London: - It makes me feel extremely proud to inform you that the play "The Fifth Cup" was a grand success and a historic achievement for the organizations who are working in UK to root out caste discrimination from the British Society. Members of CasteWatchUK worked very hard for the last two years on this project and the power of Drama to convey our messages could be seen and felt in the "The Drum Theatre". The theatre - a 350 seated - was fully packed and there were people from all races, religions, communities and cities. I met a large number of people who had come all the way from London to see the play. Everyone was overwhelmed by the play and I could see people in tears at some of the scenes that were very disturbing. There were people from Sher-e-Punjab in the audience - Satpal Ji verified this fact - and to our surprise they turned out to be supportive. The standard of acting, sets and everything that goes with it was superb. Rena, Reena and Ravina did marvelous job in producing and directing this great piece of art work. I can go on and on and on but it is difficult to express my emotions about the greatness of the play. The success of the play can be estimated by the fact that the play finished at about 9 PM and about 80% of the audience was still in the hall till 11.00 PM - taking part in the Panel discussion. The management of the "The Drum Theatre" was so impressed by the popularity, the effect it had on the audience and the importance of the issues involved that they have asked caste away arts to stage this play next year - three days slot. Members of the CasteWatchUK team were asked to stand up and reveal our identities. It was a very proud moment for all of us. Satpal Ji and Jagdish Ji did a fantastic work in representing CasteWatchUK in the Panel Discussion time. People were coming to us with expression of support and many of them wanted to join CasteWatchUK and support our campaign. The play was the climax of the good work our group has done in this term which is coming to an end this month. I would like to thank Rena, Reena and Ravina for the hard work and this grand success. I would also like to thank the members of the cast who were so professional and supportive of our cause. This is first of the several shows that we'll see in the next year. I have been asked to take this educational play to all the cities of UK.

Posted on December 22, 2007

Mr. D. K. Khaparde

Phuley-Ambedkarite Movement

Mr.D. K. Khaparde had been the key personality in starting the BAMCEF organization. He was closely associated in various stages of Phuley-Ambedkarite movement. He use to believe in hard working and was not found of publicity. He played a major role in organizing the society in non-political field. There were many attempts to bring him in politics. But he refused the offer and continued to do what he can do the best to educate the Mulnivasi Bahujan Samaj. It is due to his great efforts that BAMCEF has reached in today’s stage, which is growing to every nook and corner of India.

It’s the story of fifteen year old Amrit Singh who, along with the rest of his family, moves to a new city to make a fresh start. All is going well until Amrit makes a shocking discovery about his past when a religious education lesson at school changes his life.

Will Amrit be able to overcome the prejudice surrounding him? And will the Singh family need to run away from their secrets yet again? Come and see the show to find out.

The Fifth Cup is written by Rena Dipti Annobil and Reena Bhatoa and is directed in association with Harvinder Sohal (her previous stage plays include “Anum” and “Udham”). The cast include a range of talented local actors. The production is supported by the CasteWatchUK and sponsored by Arts Council and Awards For All Lottery Funding. More information can be found at www.casteawayarts.com

Tickets for the Fifth Cup are priced at £5 each with £3 concession tickets for children and OAPs. You can purchase tickets from The Drum box office, either in person, over the phone (0121 333 2444) or online (www.the-drum.org.uk).

We hope to see you for this exciting production at The Drum, Potters Lane, Aston, Birmingham on Thursday 13th December. The play starts at 7.00 PM and it is important that you book your tickets in advance and arrive well in time. Please support our cause and our efforts to root out caste discrimination from UK by joining us in “The Drum Theatre” on 13th December.

Posted on www.ambedkartimes.com (December 3, 2007)

Kean University sponsors a study program on the 1971 Bangladesh genocide

Kean University Master of Arts in Holocaust and Genocide Studies is privileged to sponsor "Bangladesh 1971: Intolerance, Violence and Genocide", A study of all but forgotten Massacre of Bengali People. The program will be held on December 9, 2007 at 4:00pm in University center little theatre in Kean University, Union, NJ.

The program will have distinguished scholars from various universities, eyewitness and survivors, and family member of the victims of the genocide. The program will also have books, articles and videos on display in the pre-function lobby during the happy hour from 3:30pm – 4:00pm.

Sunnyvale (California): (Ambedkartimes.com News Bureau):- November 17, 2007: Pardes Times (Bi- Weekly News Paper) successfully celebrated its 1st year completion on November 16, 2007 which was held at Hindu Temple and Community Center, Sunnyvale (California).

California based well known Punjabi singers Sukhdev Sahil, Chandan, Rajesh Raju, Sukh, Babbu Gurpal, Ishmit Narula, Sultan Akhtar & other singers performed amazingly last Friday. Many people, who deserved to be honored, were honored at this event by the Pardes Times. Over four hundred people were present at this event to enjoy this Pardes Times’s special moment.

The TV YPD, Newspapers (Print Media) were also present that night. This event was hosted by a well known Journalist S. Ashok Bhaura and he did a really very good job at handling the stage and making sure everything went the way he wanted it to be.

Ambedkartimes.com congratulates the management (Pardes Times Bi- Weekly News Paper) for having such a really good and well organized event. This event went really well, the arrangements were awesome and everyone had a really good time.

Posted on November 18, 2007

DISCUSSION ON MOCHI DA PUTT

Now the dispute is not between empty and full stomachs.
It is between the dominant and the lower castes.

Chandigarh : ( Ambedkartimes.com News Bureau):- Shahit Chintan, Chandigarh (a critical literary and cultural forum) organized a discussion on the Mochi Da Putt, collection of stories authored by Mohan Lal Phillauria, on November 4, 2007 at Pracheen Kala Kender, Sector-35B, Chandigarh. The paper on book was read by Prof. Ronki Ram of Panjab University. Mr. Mohan Bhandari, a renowned story writer, presided over the discussion. Prof. Bhushan Dhyanpuri, Prof. H.S.Mehta, Prof. Swaranjit Mehta, Dr. Prem Singh, Dr. Pritam Singh, IAS (Retd.), Dr. Gurnam Ikkeda, Fatehjaung Singh, Mr. Purkhalvi of Dalit Chintan Manch (Punjab) and Sh. Chaman Lal were among the main participants who presented their views on the book and the theme paper. Dr. Ronki Ram placed the central theme of the book in the emerging Dalit assertion in Punjab. He said that the author has been very successfully able to capture the pangs of Dalit atrocities, social exclusion and oppression widespread in almost all the villages of the state. He further said that Mohan Lal Phillauria has clearly warned in his collection of stories that now the Dalits are come of age where they can not be coerced more. They have become aware of their rights and tormentors. They want equal share in the local structures of power. They can no longer be denied participation in centers of power at the grassroots. Now the dispute is not between empty and full stomachs. It is between the dominant and the lower castes. The lower castes have ceased to submit to the calls of the dominant castes. They have started questioned the false caste domination of the upper castes.

Prof. Ronki Ram recommends this book of stories for social scientists as well who would also be benefited from the sharp observations of the story writer: Mr. Phillauria.

Posted on November 08, 2007

Shaheed Maharishi Shambook Memorial
Planned to coincide with the Remembrance Day

Jai Birdi

Shaheed Maharishi Shambook Memorial- planned to coincide with the Remembrance Day. While many are celebrating Diwali as a symbol of the end of Rama’s exile, his triumph over Ravana, and the beginning of Ram Raj, others are taking a moment to reflect and re-evaluate the history. As a part of this process of re-evaluation, Chetna Association of Canada has made plans to pay tributes to Shaheed Maharishi Shambook, a Tapasvi, who defied the Brahaminical code and as a result was mercilessly killed by Rama. The tributes will include screening of a Hindi film, Teesari Azadi, a film that provides a view that Ram Raja was a period where justice was a privilege only for certain castes.

The memorial will be observed on the Remembrance Day, November 11 at 1 PM at the Dr. Ambedkar Library in the Guru Ravidass Community Centre, 7271 Gilley Avenue in Burnaby. For information, please contact Kamlesh Ahir at 604-951-6345

Caste Watch UK Conference on 6th November
At House of Commons, Westminster, London

CasteWatchUK is holding a conference entitled ‘Caste and British Discrimination Law' in Committee Room 14, House of Commons, Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA from 14.00 to 16.00 on Tuesday, 6th November 2007.
Please visit www.castewatchuk.org to register your interest.

CasteWatchUK has been concerned about the rising Caste based discrimination establishing roots in Britain amongst the Asian Diaspora. This conference will raise the profile of this pernicious form of discrimination that is now affecting communities in Britain and the British Governments unacceptability of its practices.

So far, CasteWatchUK has worked since its formal launch in July 2004 to raise awareness of Caste discrimination in the UK. Amongst the many actions we have taken is our work with the Dept for Education and Skills; our input into the Home Office White Paper "Strength in Diversity Consultations" and our lobbying for legislation to make Caste Discrimination unlawful vis-à-vis Equality Legislation that is currently going through parliament.

Additionally, we have provided key input to conferences organized by DFID and lobbied for debates on Caste discrimination in the Houses of Parliament. We have also published a number of articles in national and local press. We have also actively participated in a number of radio discussions on Caste Discrimination. Recently, we have provided feedback to the Community and Faiths Unit as part of their remit to conduct exploratory investigation into Caste Discrimination.

The Westminster conference will discuss Caste and British Discrimination Law; Caste Identity as a social norm and hear testimonials from those who have experienced Caste Discrimination.

Please note that on the day of the conference there will be State opening of Parliament in the morning. You will not be admitted to the House of Commons until around 1.p.m.

Kindest RegardsSat Pal Muman

Posted on November 02, 2007

Effigy of Ravana

"Jai Birdi"

Surrey ( Canada ): Dussehra was celebrated with fireworks in a temple in Surrey on October 21. Although the effigy of Ravana was not burnt at the Dussehra festival, it was pushed and left on the ground. After seeing the effigy lying on the ground in rain, one of the patrons rescued the head of Ravana *(effigy)* and placed it in a dignified place. The patron, Balbir Ghirra, said he was feeling very upset to see the great soul- a soul who had risked and lost his kingdom because of his belief in self respect and dignity- being undignified. The local Hindu temple in Surrey ( Canada ) had made plans to burn effigy of Ravana at the Dussehra festival. In the end, the temple decided to not burn the effigy of Ravana. Dalit community of the Vancouver area had suggested to the Dussehra planning committee that the burning of effigy is not appropriate, and that if Rama is a hero to some, Ravana is a Maha Soul to others.

The festival of Dussehra has led many to raise the question and ask whether Rama was indeed a representative of "Good". One of the stories found in Maharishi Valmiki Ramayana states that Rama killed one of the saints. The saint's only crime was that he was doing meditation, a practice that was denied to the Shudras- members of the lower castes. People are asking how a killer of a saint can be a representative of "Good". They are also beginning to re-interpret and rewrite the history.

Posted on Nov. 1, 2007

JATINDER KUMAR BAGHA (JINDI) PASSED AWAY

JATINDER KUMAR BAGHA

It is very shocking news to the community that Jatinder Kumar Bagha (Jindi) passed away on October 29, 2007 in California. He was very active social man in his social circle as well as in the community. He was born on January 31, 1960. He migrated to England in 1965 at the age of 5 & to United States in 1968 at the age of 8.

On Saturday, October 27, a visiting scholar from India Prof. Gurnam Singh Mukatsar will pay tributes to Saheb Kanshi Ram who died on October 9 last year. The event is organized to pay tributes to one of the foremost leaders after Dr. Ambedkar who mobilized Dalits, Minorities, and other oppressed groups to organize politically and make effective differences in their lives. Mukatsar had known and worked diligently under Sahib Kanshi Ram and has now written several books highlighting Dalit assertion in India.

The tributes will be organized at the Dr. Ambedkar Library, Shri Guru Ravidass Community Centre at 7271 Gilley Avenue in Burnaby. On Sunday Mukatsar will unveil painting of Saheb Kanshi Ram (Painted by Shital Anmol) at the Dr. Ambedkar library. The unveiling ceremony will be at 11 am followed by further presentations by Mukatsar, Sonu Ambedkar and other guests. Sonu Ambedkar is a reknowned activist and producer of telefilm, "Mochi Da Putt" (story by Mohan Philauria) from sacremanto, California will also oin Mukatsar to grace the occasion.

For more information, please contact Bill Basra at 604-725-4048 , Virinder Bangar at 604-999-2300 or Kamlesh Ahir at 604-951-6345

Posted on October 26, 2007

Mr. Dev Hayer
honoured in California

On Saturday Oct.13, 2007 Mr. Dev Hayer M.L.A., Surrey Tynehead, Parliamentary secretary for Multiculturalism and Immigration (Province of British Columbia)was honoured at Shri Guru Ravidass Temple (C.V) Fresno (California) in the presence of lions club of Fresno and sangaat of Guru Ghar.

Photo & caption: Kulwant Ubhi & Des Raj Bangar.

Posted on Oct. 17, 2007

Babu Kanshi Ram’s First Death Anniversary and The 51st Anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar’s Conversion to Buddhism Jai Birdi

To mark the first death anniversary of BSP Supremo Babu Kanshi Ram and the 51st anniversary of Dr. Ambedkar’s conversion to Buddhism, local groups have made plans to host special events on October 20 and 21 in the lower mainland. To grace these occasions, the groups have invited Buddhist Monk Chandra Bodhi and a writer and activist, Gurnam Singh Muktsar. Babu Kanshi Ram’s painting by local artist Shital Anmol will also be unveiled and installed at the Dr. Ambedkar Library, Guru Ravidass Community Centre in Burnaby.

Bhante Chandra Bodhi, a visiting Budhist Monk, will lead a group of Dr.Ambedkar’s followers on Sunday, October 14 and garland Dr. Ambedkar statue at the Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, Canada. The garlanding ceremony is organized to pay tributes to Dr. Ambedkar on historical move of adopting Buddhism, a largest mass conversion in the history of India.

After the garlanding of the Bust, the group will go to the Guru Ravidass Community Centre and pay further tributes. For information, please contact: Satish Aujla at 604-375-2027 or Kamlesh Ahir at 604-339-2040

AHSAS - "Realizing the importance of good people in your life is just as effective as achieving the state of Nirvana"

Posted on October 14, 2007

Mr. Ramdas Athavale, Shegaonkar to attend Buddhist conference

Mumbai: - Republican Party of India (RPI) President and Member of Parliament Mr. Ramdas Athawale and Maharashtra Minister of State for Housing Advocate Pritamkumar Shegaonkar attending World Fellowship of Buddhist International conference in Seoul, South Korea, from October 7-12, 2007, they are leading 20 member delegation of Buddhist from Maharashtra, Avinash kamble, Dinkar Sonkamble, Ven. Rahul Bodhi, Ms. Abhaya Sonawane, Pravin Bhaleshan, and Dr. Bhalerao. This Buddhist conference organised every two year by the World Fellowship Buddhist HQ in Bangkok, Thailand.

The conference will be held in Seoul, capital of South Korea, from October 8 - 12, 2007, this year there will an Annual Election for electing International General Body during this period and Mr. Athawale is contesting an election as one of the Vice-President of this august Body. . The conference will discuss ''Buddhism in future''. They will arrive in to Mumbai Sahar international Airport on October 12, 2007 after midnight that will be 13th October.

Sent by Nishikant waghmare:

Posted on October11, 2007

DIKSHA DAY CELEBRATION IN TORONTO

Ambedkar Buddhist Mission (Toronto, Canada) is arranging a function to mark historic event of Dhamma Diksha Day on Sunday October 14th 2007. 6.30 pm at Indian Buddhist Temple. Baba Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar embraced Buddhism on October 14th 1956 at Nagpur (India) along with more than half million of his followers. This was great religious conversion of 20th century in the history of India after Ashoka Emperior. He was the pioneer in bringing back Buddhism to its homeland.
It’s highly recommended and suggested that those who not yet taken Diksha, should make a public commitment by embracing Dhamma on this very important day, which is actually a liberation day for our people or whole world human society. This is only way to show dedication and devotion to Baba Sahib Dr. B. R. Ambedkar. According to him best way to serve mankind is to follow the Path shown by the Lord Buddha’s noble discourse for compassion, & peace for the human society.
The Chief Abbot of the Indian Buddhist Temple Ven.Gayanosri will all conduct Religious ceremonies and also others special venerable from the Toronto Maha Vihara (Sri Lanka).

Langer will also serve on this day. For more information please contact Temple @ 416-609-8953 or 416578-000. We are hoping that you and yours friends and family members will be participating this auspicious glorious day.

24th National Convention APPEAL by S. S. DHAMMY, NATIONAL GENERAL SECRETARY (BAMCEF)

Mission of BAMCEF

Rashtrapita Jyotirao Phule, Periyar Ramasamy and Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar had solemnly proclaimed Social revolution as the objective of their movement. They struggled throughout their life to accomplish this objective. Dr. Ambedkar incorporated Liberty, Equality, Fraternity and Justice in the preamble of the Constitution to establish a Democratic Republic Nation. But the objective has not been accomplished even after 57 years of Indian Republic. This has led to a barbarous exploitation and massacre of Mulnivasi Bahujan Samaj. BAMCEF had therefore committed itself to accomplish this task of social revolution as its mission.

Achievement of BAMCEF

BAMCEF was established as a social and cultural organization way back in the year 1978. Despite of several ups and downs, during the last 29 years BAMCEF remained committed to the values and principle of life and selflessly dedicated to Mulnivasi Bahujan Samaj. We would therefore like to place an account of our achievements in the movement before the Mulnivasi Bahujan Samaj.

BAMCEF with the strategic planning and awakening programme created impact on Indian social system due to spreading of Phule-Ambedkarite ideology amongst various castes across the country. BAMCEF has emerged as a strong national organization of Mulnivasi Bahujan Samaj. This is the biggest achievement of BAMCEF for mulnivasi brethren. The organization is seriously thinking to use this force to build a strong movement in near future.
Our need is to organize the mulnivasi bahujan samaj across the country who are divided into more than 6000 castes. Initially we have organized them as “Bahujan Samaj”. However considering the dynamics of movement we have adopted “Mulnivasi Identity”. This is the most potent weapon to combat Brahminism and in the days to come bahujan samaj is bound to unite under this identity. The credit goes to the mulnivasi bahujan samaj who have deposed their trust in the BAMCEF.

Importance of National Convention in the Movement

National Convention is one of the important activities of BAMCEF. Over past 29 years BAMCEF has culturized this event. It is the feeling amongst the masses that huge money spent on National Convention ultimately does not culminate into result. However we must not forget that the National Convention is one of the important tools to keep the movement alive and exert pressure on the forces which are harming the interest of mulnivasi bahujan samaj. The National Convention has proved to be an effective tool to achieve these objectives. The movement cannot be built without the support from the society. Hence it is necessary to deliberate on the burning issues affecting the society to awaken them and spread the message throughout the country.
Reservation in Judiciary to Backward Class
A Conspiracy by Ruling Class
The nation is passing through a transitory phase. It is indicative from the socio political changes taking place at the national level. With the rising awareness of Mulnivasi Bahujan Samaj the Brahminical forces are getting destabilized. To combat this upsurge amongst mulnivasi bahujan samaj the Brahminical forces are announcing attractive schemes or policies without providing infrastructural inputs. e.g. “Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan” is one such policy measure wherein no adequate manpower and financial support is provided. Similarly in case of reservation to OBC’s in the higher educational institution the matter has not been defended before the Hon’ble Supreme Court invoking the spirit of constitution which is highly in favour of backward classes. Having failed miserably to protect the interest of backward classes, they have announced reservation in judiciary to backward classes to divert their attention.

Final Solution

Despite of the democratic setup in the nation, the people at the helm of government, administration and judiciary bear an attitude opposing the rights of mulnivasi bahujan samaj. We must try to understand why is it so? Our forefathers Rashtrapita Jyotirao Phule and Babasaheb Ambedkar were having firm belief that Brahminism is a root cause of all the evils in India. It is a philosophy which divides the society and inculcates the spirit of graded degradation. Every individual is controlled by the brahminical thought and it reflects in his behavior. No changes can be made in the behavior by taking political, administrative and judicial measures.

Dr. Ambedkar in his book “Ranade, Gandhi & Jinnha” had made explicitly clear that experience had proved that rights cannot be protected by law but can be done by social and moral spirit of the society. If there is social spirit to give recognition to rights then only rights can be protected. In real sense no law, no parliament, no judiciary can guarantee the protection of rights. For a democratic rule there has to be democratic society. If the society is not democratic then the formal structure of democracy has no meaning. Therefore only way out for liberation of mulnivasi bahujan people is to discard this dirty brahminical system, re-establish mulnivasi culture and create a democratic society. Then only our constitutional rights can be secured.

Preparation for Convention

This year the 24th National Convention of BAMCEF is scheduled at Delhi from 27th to 30th December 2007. The deliberation will be focused on these issues wherein the renowned thinkers and intellectuals will participate. We therefore appeal to all awakened citizens of mulnivasi bahujan samaj to attend awakening sessions in the National Convention and get enlightened on various burning issues concerning our society. We also appeal to our mulnivasi brothers and sisters to extend their cooperation with time, talent and financial assistance to make the Phule-Ambedkarite movement powerful and effective.Jai Bhim! Jai Mulnivasi!!

Posted on October 05, 2007

BAMCEF’s ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN NEW DELHI

Sathio, Jai Mulnivasi!

I hope this appeal will find all of you in good health and high spirit. Bamcef have decided to hold their annual conference in New Delhi the capital of India, this year. The largest ground available in New Delhi has been booked for December 26Th to 30Th. This Ground is known as Ram Lila Ground.

We are fortunate that the freedom and liberty we are enjoying today came our way, without any bloody struggle. Otherwise if we look around the world today how people are suffering and struggling for their freedom and liberty. At the same time we must not under estimate the great scarifies made in the past by our fore fathers. Baba Sahib Ambedkar who stands very tall in this struggle and made the ultimate sacrifice also advised us to keep this struggle going at all costs.

Just imagine if there was not Phule-Ambedkar what would have been our plight. I am involved with Bamcef for last seven years. During this period, also I have visited many states and cities and villages of India and can say with authority that majority of our people are still struggling for basic human needs in India.

If we observe the economy of India that is make headlines in the world, as the same time people are still forced to go hungry of eat grass and rats to hang on to their life. India's economy and political, social system only favours 15% Brahmins and Banias. Where 85% our Mulnivasi people are deprived of any share of it. This is not a coincidentally happening but is systematically planned.

Bamcef want to change this system and bring about the social system based on equality and liberty and equal opportunities for all of us. We seek your support and participation in many ways.

All those who are going to be in India in December this year can physically get involved. You can take part and listen to many up to date problems of our people in India.

You can also get involve by contributing some financial help to lessen the load from our people in India. Without financial help nothing much is achieved, I need not remind you. There are hundreds of reasons why we the NRIs need to do so I can list ,but I feel you are all well informed and well aware of all these.

You can also make valuable suggestions what, we need to do and how we can do it more effectively. I want to end this appeal with a request to all to get involve as you feel free, but be part of us for better future for our coming generations.Looking forward to your suggestions physical and financial support.

Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, CanadaExtends their support and sympathy

May peace prevail sooner in Burma!

Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada commends Buddhist Monks, Nuns and Laymen for their peaceful protest for the Human Rights of the people of Burma.

Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada also commends each and everyone around the world for extending their sympathy and support for the Buddhist Monks, Nuns and people of Burma to challenge the human rights violation by the present Burma government.

International community has also extended it’s sympathy from every corner of the globe and United Nations Security Council is trying it’s best by getting involved to initiate the negotiations among all groups protesting and the current government to minimize the human loss.

Buddhist monks are respected and acknowledged for their non-violence from the times of Lord Buddha. We are all proud of them that they have not forgotten their noble duties to protect the humanity by protesting peacefully for the democracy and justice. They did not protest for any political or personal gains but they have sacrificed their lives for the rights and justice of people of Burma.

Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada and its members ask the Myanmar Junta to listen to the Sangha, International Community and UNO Security Council representatives to commence dialogue to seek reconciliation with the people of Burma.

As we extend our support and sympathy for the peaceful protesters and compassion to the Junta Government, we also invite the world to do the same for those peaceful protesters (Buddhist Monks, Nuns and People of Burma). We hope that normal democratic daily life will soon prevail in Burma.

Members of Indian Buddhist Society Toronto, Canada

Posted on October 03, 2007

Punjab Buddhist Society UK concerning Burma

Punjab Buddhist Society UK , has been observing the world wide protests against the injustices and oppression against Burmese people by the present government of Myanmar , Burma . We express our solidarity and sympathy for the efforts of the Buddhist Monks, Nuns, Students and all the Burmese who are peacefully protesting against atrocities and for the democracy and justice.

These violent and brutal reactions towards the peaceful protests of Buddhist Monks, Nuns, Students of Myanmar and elsewhere in Burma, is the abuse of Human Rights and contrary to international Law. The military Junta has killed by opening fire on unnamed Monks. They have been beaten in streets and imprisoned by thousands.

Buddhist monks and nuns are the symbol of peace and harmony. They came on the streets for good of the country and its people. Buddhist world has always held the Venerable monks in Burma with great respect. Today, they have sacrificed themselves or the sake of peaceful resolution. They have spilled their blood for peace and harmony in society. They are not seeking any privileges or power for themselves but they only want Human Rights to be respected and Justice to prevail for all.

On behalf of Punjab Buddhist Society UK and its members ask the Junta government of Myanmar to listen to the Sangha, the people of the world and commence dialogue to seek reconciliation with the people of Burma .

On behalf of Punjab Buddhist Society UK, our blessings, support and sympathy to the peaceful protesters and compassion to the Junta Government and hope that common sense would prevail.

With Metta,

Ven. Chander Bodhi and members , Punjab Buddhist Society UK

Posted on October 02, 2007

YOU CAN COME FORWARD AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

Friends and colleaguesNamo Buddha!
I was in far east countries for the last seven days. I have been observing and meeting people from Burma and their sympathisers and supporter in those countries. As you are aware of all the development in Burma against the oppressive military Junta .In the last up rise and protest against the Military Junta in 1988 left thousands killed and mercilessly crushed movement for Democracy and fundamental Human rights.
This time the revered Buddhists Monks who have been educating the public to stand and fight for their rights themselves joined the protest Marches, risking their own lives and jeopardising their own future and well being. This protest expanded in most of the big cities, grew stronger day by day and intensified. It was a remarkable and delightful to see the strength and compassion by these revered Buddhist monks, instead of enchanting prayers or mantra they came out in protest giving cover to the students
Because of this presence of Revered Monks the military Junta remained confused what to do and how to deal with it? Ultimately after 8 days, they lost their patience and rounded up the protestors and Buddhist Monks once again, but not before the whole world and UNO protested against it and sent their delegates to mediate the desire change.
Hope that change for which many Monks have laid down their lives and have seen their Viharas ransacked by the military and thousand Monks being taken into custodies or jails. Still People are protesting but not in a great numbers as with the strength of Monks. Therefore all Burmese Students and Monasteries in UK are requesting us to lend them our support by joining in a peace full protest in front of The Prime Minister office 10 Downing Street W1 from 2.30 PM to 8.00. I am asked to call all those who can join hands with these brave and deserving people on Monday the First of October. May be our little support of solidarity with them, will open the gates of freedom and liberty for these people and leaving them and us well satisfied.
Looking forward to see you there, whenever you can come and show your support.
I remain yours for liberty and freedom.

Ambedkar Times News Bureau from Punjab : On 16 September, 2007, Bharatiya Dalit Sahitya Academy organized its 5th state conference of Dalit writers at Mansa (Punjab). H. E. Dr. Mata Parshad (ex. Governor Arunachal Pardesh) was the chief guest on the occasion where scholars, writers, poets as well as activists who have been contributing towards the emancipation of the downtrodden were honored.

The Academy conferred Bharat Rattan Dr. Ambedkar State Award on Dr, Ronki Ram, Sh. Sohan Sehjal, Sh. Sri Ram Arash and S. Pritam Singh M.A. in recognition of the commendable literary, social & cultural service rendered by them for the upliftment of downtrodden-oppressed & depressed people of the country.

Sh. Tirath Tongaria, Gen. Secretary, read the state report and proposed the vote of thanks.

Posted on September 27, 2007

SHRI GURU RAVI DASS SABHA BAY AREA

Shri Guru Ravi Dass Sabha (Bay Area) California is pleased to announce that the monthly programme will be held at Newark Pavilion, Newark (California) on Sunday September 30, 2007 All sangat is requested by the Sabha to participate in this programme with families and invoke Waheguru’s eternal blessings. Guru Ka Parsad & Atut Langar will be served.

SHRI GURU RAVI DASS SABHA BAY AREA ( CALIFORNIA)

Posted on September 28, 2007

Bhante Chander Bodhi

Bhante Chander Bodhi's visit to
USA & Canada

Punjab Buddhist Society, UK

Takshila Buddha Vihara

Ven. Bhikkhu Chander Bodhi Ji is visiting USA and Canada from 18th September to 29th October, 2007. During the trip, Bhante Ji will visit New York, Washington, Houston (Texas), California (Sacramento, San Jose, and Yuba City), Vancouver, and Toronto (Canada).

Bhikkhu Chander Bodhi Ji has been serving Dhamma in United Kingdom for the last 12 years. He is the only Bhikkhu who speaks Punjabi frequently in the UK and perhaps all over India and around the globe. While he was working with Punjabi community, he realized that there is a need of such Bhikkhu who are able to speak the language of a common man and understand their culture. Only then he is able to communicate more effectively to provide religious education to them. To achieve this objective, he has formed Punjab Buddhist Society UK and Punjab Buddhist Society Punjab.

To train Bhikkhus and impart education on the basis of ‘The Buddha and His Dhamma’ by Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, Bhikkhu Chander Bodhi Ji is an instrumental to establish Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara at Ludhiana in the state of Punjab (India) with the cooperation of Punjabi NRI’s. This Buddha Vihara is a unique in whole of north India. It is built on one acre of land on the main G T Road (National Highway) leading from Delhi to Amritsar.

Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara was opened in October 2006 on the Golden Jubilee of Baba Sahib Dr. Ambedkar’s conversion to Buddhism. Since then this Vihara is functioning very smoothly and quite a lot people visit this place daily. On every Sunday people come to listen to the religious discourses.

Though most of the work has been completed but there are still lots of work to be done, such as; planning of constructing an Ambedkar Hall and an art work depicting the life story of Buddha inside the Seema Hall.

We are very much appreciated that some of you have already helped to establish this monumental structure. Without your cooperation and goodwill, this achievement in a short span time was impossible. To complete the remaining work and to sustain Takshila Maha Buddha Vihara, Bhante Chander Bodhi Ji is again visiting you.

Sacramento :- Thirteenth Punjabi American Literature Conference organized by Punjabi Sahit Sabha California (Regd.) was attended by about 300 hundreds Punjabi writers and literature lovers from different parts of the world. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Jaspal Singh from Chandigarh (India). Dr. Baldev Singh Dhaliwal of Punjabi University Patiala and Dr; Pushvinder Kaur of In-service Training Center Patiala also presented their papers on Punjabi American literature.

Dr Jaspal Singh in his keynote address challenged Punjabi writers to carve a niche for themselves in the mainstream American Ethnic literature of the US. He raised some fundamental questions as to why a representative text of Punjabis’ destiny, dreams, hopes and aspirations could not emerge from their collective experience. He illustrated the problem by citing the example of European literature in different languages. When a literary text in a particular language appears, the translated version in English also becomes available within a few months. Punjabi litterateurs need to concentrate on how to reach a larger audience in the country of their adoption.

Continuing in the same strain, Dr. Jaspal made an appeal for making Punjabi Literature a part of American ethnic studies. It is time for a serious thought why Punjabi literature holds no place in American comparative literature and how such goals can be reached. He further emphasized that Punjabi litterateurs have to come out of their mental ghettos so that they could participate in a powerful manner in the mainstream American literature, media and social cultural discourse. The Punjabi Diaspora has to give up its tendency of plowing their lonely furrow. They need to get rid of their tribal psyche so as to establish their unique identity at the global level. It appears that Professors of Punjabi origin in American Universities could do more than anyone else, but unfortunately they are completely isolated from the Punjabi community in general. Instead of taking care of the interest of their community, culture, and institutions, they take America as their exclusive intellectual colony so that they can keep on perpetuating their intellectual hegemony over the ordinary Punjabi community. Dr. Jaspal Singh said that they usually behave like autocrats sitting in their ivory towers. In ordinary language they can be termed as academic Czars. To establish a distinct Punjabi identity in America which can become part of the overall American cultural discourse is a very serious problem. The Punjabi American intellectuals are sitting on the fence staring in the meaningless vacuum.

The second paper of the seminar was presented by Dr. Baldev Dhaliwal of Punjabi University Patiala, India. He highlighted the contribution of Punjabi writers in the field of American short stories. He substantiated his views by giving appropriate examples from several stories which had an overwhelming response from the audience. The problem outlined by Dr. Jaspal Singh at the theoretical and ideological levels was carried forward by Dr Dhaliwal at the pragmatic levels presenting as an interesting discourse on Punjabi American literature. The audience responded very warmly to the intellectual propositions put forward by the scholar.

The third paper was presented by Dr Pushvinder Kaur who came from Patiala for attending this conference. She dwelled on her personal experiences with American Punjabi literary figures and was able to establish an emotional bondage with the audience. Consequently, this seminar proved to be a challenge for the Punjabi audience at the ideological, pragmatic, and emotional levels. It seems that now time has come when Punjabi Americans have to deal with above stated problems as their futuristic projects so that their place is reserved in the overall socio-cultural discourse of America.

The first session of this conference was devoted to story reading in which Harjinder Pandher and Ratheshwar Singh presented their unpublished stories. Jaswant Happowalia conducted the stage both for Story Reading and Poetry Recitation. Kamal Banga Vice President of Punjabi Sahit Sabha collaborated with Manjit Kaur Sekhon to conduct the ceremonies. In the beginning of the conference participants paid homage to departed Punjabi scholars and literary figures like S Bhagwant Singh Azad, Narinder Bhullar, Dalbir Singh and Lal Singh Dil whose demise has left a serious vacuum in Punjabi literary world. Mr. Baldev Singh son of Bhagwant Singh Azad came to the stage to receive the honor that was originally planned for his father. The stage for this session was conducted by Manjit Kaur Sekhon in a very successful way. The second session as has been stated above was held in the memory of Jamal Hoshiarpuri and its main theme was “Postmodernism and Diaspora Punjabi Literature.” Following this, Dr Amrik Singh President of Punjabi Sahit Sabha California congratulated the audience in general and the representatives of different cultural and literary institutions in particular for participating in a big way. Dr. Amrik Singh told the audience about the special message sent by veteran poet Gurcharn Rampuri from Canada about Dr. Jamal Hoshiarpuri’s contribution. Dr. Hoshiarpuri’s daughter Dr. Tehseen took keen interest in the entire proceedings of the conference. Dr. Amrik Singh also spoke about good wishes sent by veteran journalist Surjan Zirvi from Toronto and former bureau chief of The Tribune and now the editor of South Asia Post Mr. Gobind Thukral for the success of the conference. He congratulated the organizers for inviting distinguished scholars for the occasion.

Mr. Jasjeet Singh Board of Directors Amritsar Times and Mr. Daljit Sra Chief Editor of Amritsar Times and Editor of World Sikh News Mr. Ajmer Singh participated and took keen interest in the proceedings. Mr. Prem Kumar Chumber Editor of Ambedkar Times congratulated the organizers for inviting scholars of caliber. Among the journalists Mr. Kuldeep Dhaliwal (Darishtikon), Mr. Husan Laroya of Ajit Group (Jalandhar) and Prem Kumar Chumber (Ambedkar Times) were honored for their contribution to Punjabi journalism. Dr. Onkar Bindra an Almuni of UC Berkeley and a former professor of Punjab Agriculture University was honored for invaluable services for the cause of Punjabi community. New members who joined the Punjabi Sahit Sabha were also welcomed such as Gurbachan Singh Bhatia, Tatinder Kaur, Jyoti Singh and Gurpal Singh Khaira. Gurpal Singh Khaira could not be present due to accident he got involved in a day before the conference. Dr. Harbhajan Singh Shergill remained present throughout the session and extended all kind of help for the conference.

NCDHR BAGS PRESTIGEOUS HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD

NCDHR is honoured with the RAFTO Prize 2007, an international human rights prize awarded to human rights defenders annually. The award is an important recognition for NCDHR’s work and its struggle to end discrimination and human rights violations against 167 millions of Dalits in India.

NCDHR is honoured with the RAFTO Prize 2007, an international human rights prize awarded to human rights defenders annually. The award is an important recognition for NCDHR’s work and its struggle to end discrimination and human rights violations against 167 millions of Dalits in India.

By this award, the RAFTO Foundation is sending a strong message to the international community that it is time for action to bring an end to the world’s most serious human rights problems.

Worldwide 260 million people suffer caste-based discrimination; daily humiliations, segregation in housing and education, and denial of access to public resources like drinking water. Although caste motivated crimes against Dalits are widespread, the justice system largely fails to punish perpetrators of violence, murder, sexual assault and public humiliations.

Rikke Nöhrlind, Coordinator, International Dalit Solidarity Network, congratulates NCDHR, underlining the importance of its achievements in exposing the injustice: “The perpetrators of crimes and discrimination against Dalits continue to enjoy an outrageous degree of impunity, aided and abetted by inaction and discrimination by the criminal justice system and other officials”. She concludes: “Human rights activists and Dalits in India are asking ‘How much longer?’ This is the question governments, United Nations and the European Union should be asking themselves and especially the governments of caste affected countries”.

The National Campaign has since its inception in 1998 managed to raise caste discrimination in national and international attention as a serious human rights violation. As a forum of human rights organisations, Dalit activists and intellectuals, it initiated the first ever-signatory campaign for Dalit rights. NCDHR has provided comprehensive and substantive documentation on the human rights violation against Dalits and has engaged leaders in India and international level in its commitment and efforts to get the Indian government and the international community to wake up to this massive, yet largely ignored human rights problem.

With courage and determination, the NCDHR has forcefully pushed a simple message in their own country and internationally: Caste discrimination must end.
The RAFTO Prize is awarded by the RAFTO Foundation every year. Previous RAFTO laureates include Aung San Suu Kyi and Kim Dae-Jung, who have subsequently been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

www.ambedkartimes.com

Congratulates to

NCDHR for getting Prestigeous Human Rights Award.

Posted on September 24, 2007

PRESTIGIOUS HUMAN RIGHTS AWARD TO NCDHR

The Rafto Human Rights Memorial Prize for 2007 has been awarded to the Indian organization The National Campaign on Dalit Human Rights (NCDHR). We the Dalits from Kerala, congratulate one and all in our Org, The NCDHR for the Prestigious Award. We once again congratulate our sisters and brothers in the NCDHR team in particular Mr. Paul Divakar National convener, and Mr. Vincent Manoharan. We remember every monet who lost their life in the battle of caste out caste Let us join in the moment, we remember every one who lost their life and loved ones in the battle against untouchability. We, this moment dedicate ourselves for the Rightful fight against the castism.Jai Bhim!

Warm regards, R. Prakash, Kerala ( India )

Posted on September 24, 2007

Ambedkar Mission Toronto

Is inviting their respectable members & supporters

Ambedkar Mission Toronto is inviting their respectable members & supporters to join us on Saturday September 22, 2007 to welcome the members of Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee of Great Britain (U.K), as we are all aware this Committee has been able to build Dr. Ambedkar Buddhist Resource Centre in Punjab with all your support. The President Mr. Paul, Treasurer Mr. Ram Parkash Jakhu and Executive Member Mr. Darshan Ram Jassal will be meeting the followers and supporters. Members of the committee will update us on projects and ask for your support for the development of Ambedkar Buddhist Resource Centre.
Once again on behalf of the Mission we would like to request all of you to please come with family and friends at 850-Tapscott rd unit 49, Indian Buddhist Temple on Saturday September 22, 2007 at 6.30 pm to 9.00 pm. Langer will also serve on this day. For more information please contact Temple or 416-578-0000. Thanking you in anticipation.

With MettaAnand Balley

Posted on September 20, 2007

Why offering Kathina is Special?

Kathina Robe Offering to the Sangha
First of all the Kathina robe can be offered to Bhikkhu Sangha in a monastery only once in a year. Secondly, it can be offered only during the specified period, which starts from the end of Vassa or Full moon day of October to next Full moon day of November. Thirdly, it is to be offered to the Sangha and not to an individual Monk. Therefore, the offering of Kathina Robe is a rare opportunity for lay people and Venerable Monks. As the Buddha says that offering to the Sangha is always more beneficial and brings meritorious results.

What to do on Kathina offering day ?

The offering of Kathina robe or Kathina day is one of the most sacred functions in Buddhism. Besides the main Kathina robe, devotees also offer robes and other materials to the Sangha on this day. Thus they get the opportunity to participate in this function and do meritorious deeds; it is a great beneficial ceremony for the goodness and happiness of present, middle and ultimate happiness. May this meritorious act be strong support for you, for the success in life and helpful in gaining the ultimate happiness of Nibbana.

Vancouver : Superintendent of Punjab Police from Firozpur, S. Sarwan Singh Bangar, was welcomed and honored at the Red Fort Restaurant in Vancouver for his noble services. The reception was hosted on September 19 by Chetna Association of Canada and Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Vancouver . Burnaby- Edmonds MLA Raj Chauhan and the Burnaby 's councilor Sav Dhaliwal also joined the groups and welcomed SP Bangar. The group members also acknowledged and thanked Councilor Dhaliwal for proclaiming Sep. 27 as the Shaheed Bhagat Singh Day in Burnaby . The primary discussion was on fraud marriages for the purposes of coming to Canada , increased drug dependency of youth in India , and the problems of NRIs faced about their property disputes in India . The presentation ceremony was joined by Bill Basra, Jai Birdi, Lamber Rao, Paramjit Kainth, Gopal Lohia, Sodhi Dadral, Roop Chander, Lachman Birdi, SP Ahir, Kamaljit Jassi, Harry Kainth, Surinder Owan, and others.

Posted September 22, 2007

SANT BALLAN WALEAN’S VISIT TO VANCOUVER

By Jai Birdi

Vancouver: Highly regarded and respected Saints from Dera Ballan of Jalandhar (Punjab) were in Vancouver over the past week blessing their devotees and patrons from around the Vancouver area. The visit to Vancouver was a part of their North America tour. While in Vancouver, these Saints also unveiled plates (highlighting address and building inauguration information) at the request of the managing committee of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha of Vancouver (Canada).

“I am very pleased and indebted to their Holiness for taking time out of their busy schedules and doing the honors of unveiling the plates at the Guru Ravidass Community Centre”, said Bill Basra, president of the Vancouver Sabha. Incidentally, the Guru Ravidass Community Centre was officially opened by these Saints in August 2000. The unveiling of the address and other plates highlights the strong connection between members of Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha (Vancouver) and the Dera Ballan.

“The Dera Ballan is highly regarded for the medical and education facilities it offers to people in need. Both the hospital in Kathar (Jalandhar) and a school near Phagwara are exemplary facilities that have set high standards both in fields of health care and educational facilities”, described Varinder Bangar, convener of Shri 108 Sant Sarwan Dass Charitable Trust (Western Canada) who raised funds for school bus, computers, and other projects for the hospital and the school over the past years.

The Dera Ballan is also gaining international recognition for the work it does- as well as for promoting teachings and messages of Shri Guru Ravidass. It has also attracted graduate students from the international institutions to conduct research on Guru Ravidass and the Dalit Diaspora. One of such students is Charlene Simon of France who has just finished her Masters and is now doing her Ph.D. on the teachings of Guru Ravidass and the Ravidassia communities abroad. Simon was also on the tour accompanying these Saints and devotees (Parkash Kaur, Nirmal Chander, Sanjeev Chauhan, and Biker Dass Chauhan from the UK and Tajiner Paul from Oregon, UK). Sanjeev Chauhan is has Masters in digital video productions and is producing a documentary of the tour).

After leaving Vancouver, Shri 108 Sant Niranjan Dass Ji and Shri 108 Sant Rama Nand Ji along with their devotees left for Vernon, BC. The plan is for them to continue their tour by visiting through Quesnel, Prince George, Edmonton, Calgary, and Golden. They will then preside over the opening ceremony of the Shri Guru Ravidass Temple (managed by Shri Guru Ravidass Sabha, Ontario) on September 23, 2007.

For more information, please contact Virinder Bangar at 604-999-2300 or Harmesh Sandhi at sandhi@sympatico.cam, or Sunil Raju at rajus@interlog.com

Posted on September 13, 2007

Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee visiting Toronto (Canada)

Members of Dr. Ambedkar Memorial Committee of Great Britain will be visiting Canada from 20th to 24th September 2007. Mr. Raj Paul president, Mr. Ram Parkash Jakhu treasurer and Mr. Darshan Ram Jassal executive member, will be meeting the followers and supporters of Dr. Ambedkar Mission Toronto for the purpose of development of the Dr. Ambedkar BuddhistResource Centre Punjab.

The Thirteenth Chuni Kotal Memorial Lecture Bangla Dalit Sahitya Sanstha of Kolkata arranged its thirteenth Chuni Kotal Memorial Lecture in the afternoon of August 9, 2007 in the premises of Janaki Sundari Vidyalaya, Dum Dum Cantonment, Kolkata 700065. Chuni Kotal was a Lodha Tribal Community Girl of Medinipure district. She committed suicide on August 16, 1993 while she was an M.Sc student in Vidyasagar University. What happened to her, she had been fighting with the poverty on the one hand and on the other hand she had been suffering from the caste hatred. In the classroom some of her teacher number of times said to her, ‘You the tribal of this soil get well-salaried jobs without higher qualification, then why you have come for M.Sc.?’ She was mentally hurt.And for getting remedy she complained to the V-C against the said professor. Then she was under the tremendous mental pressure to withdraw the complaint. Mentally she could not sustain and ultimately committed suicide.

Symbolically her death has been accepted by the Dalits of West Bengal to protest against the caste-hatred. This year the topic of memorial lecture was about: ‘Paschim Bange Dalit Banchanar Swarup ebong Pratikar Andolon’. Dr. Birat Bairagya and Mr. Arun Maji were invited for the memorial lecture. Both of them are having lot of experiences and discussed the exploitations of dalits in West Bengal in details and the different sorts of their remedial movemements. Dr. Bikram Sarkar, IAS (Retd) was in the chair of chief guest. He elaborated the ways and means of suppression and oppression upon the dalits. Mr. Nakul Mallick has presided over the meeting. The preparatory lecture was given by Manohar Mouli Biswas, the General Secretary of Bangla Dalit Sahitya Sanstha who had told to the house why this type of memorial lecture has been arranged for last twelve years. There were a good number of the people present in the meeting. A book of grammar of Oraon tribal language was released in the function by Dr. Bikram Sarkar and the author of the book is Mr. Ramesh Bhagat, a tribal write of Oraon community.

On 2nd September 2007, Punjab Buddhist Society UK has organized dhamma talk programme on ‘How to apply Buddhist meditation in daily life’. This is a part of ‘Buddhamarga’ regular dhamma discussion session at the centre. This talk was given by Ven. Sayadaw Jnanapurnik Mahasthavir, Aggamahasaddhamma jotikadhaja vipassanachariya from Nepal.
The programme was started by the lighting the candles in front of the Buddha by Cllr. D. D. Ahir, society’s senior adviser. All the participants observed five precepts from ven. Sayadaw. Ven. Sujan, a resident monk on behalf of society welcomed all the participants and give short background of the buddhamarga session and hand over ven. Sayadaw to deliver his massage to all.
The talk was started with the importance and value of being born as human being in this world. Having such precious life, one should not forget owns’ target to achieve ultimate happiness by training mind not to associating with harming other, adulteries, intoxication etc. one who established in morality, could develop mental peace and clam. In daily life we are facing many different difficulties and tangled with it. The more we try to release, tangled more due lack of understanding of mental condition.
Ven. Sayadaw gave clear vision of over coming from these difficulties by understanding the nature of mind by observing and developing awareness. Awareness on each and every object that one is getting from senses. Just observing as they truly are and letting it go. Further, to develop this awareness, one has to fully understand the concept of Eight Fold Noble Path and try to establish on it. Shortly, Eight Noble Path is known as ‘the Middle Path’, which is Right understanding, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action, Right livelihood, Right effort, Right mindfulness and Right concentration. The eight Fold Noble path can be categorised into three principles; morality, concentration and wisdom. Clear understanding on these three principles is the guidance for developing or applying the dhamma in daily life.
Ven sayadaw has discussed more on Sila or precepts, which is the foundation for developing concentration or meditation. Meditation is the practice of awareness or process of paying attention and focusing your awareness. Awareness will help you to gain or recovery your energy. It will help you to relax, understand the nature of changing phenomenan and understand the life as they truly are. However, he pointed out strongly that with our strong dedication and commitment, meditation won’t help and won’t work at all. Practice and practice will help to deal with daily life difficulties.
One hour’s talk was greatly appreciated and responded by the audience. Audience were eagerly joined the question & answer session. Audience were multi-nationals; British, Indian British, Indian, Nepalese, Bangladesi etc. After the Q/A session ven. Sujan invited everyone to participate ‘buddhamarga’ dhamma discussion programme on every third Sunday of the month in evening time and thanked to all the participants. At the end of the programme ven. Chander Bodhi, a chief monk of the centre and patron/president of Punjab Buddhist Society UK gave a vote of thanks to all for participating at the function and inviting all the members to join next programme and ven. Sangha gave blessings. The programme was ended by light refreshment. Every participants were enjoyed the talk and full of joy and happy in the taste of dhamma. They also gave wonderful feed back for organizing such activity every month. Further, members have suggested publishing this talk on CD or as a booklet. If anyone would like to voluntarily join on this project or would like to support please contact to ven. Chander Bodhi at the centre.
Short biography of Ven. Sayadaw Jnanapurnik Mahasthavir
Ven. Sayadaw Jnanapurnik was born in Nepal on Nov 21, 1939, and renounced at the early age of 16. At the age of 23, he obtained a degree in Buddhist teaching in Burma and has been teaching the Buddha dhamma ever since.
A gifted linguist Ven. Sayadaw is reputed to know seven major languages of the world. Thus, it was no surprise when he became Ven. Mahasi Sayadaw, one of the famous Buddhist meditation teacher’s interpreter in the early 70’s and in the course of his duty, he traveled widely in the west teaching the dhamma and vipassana meditation. Ven. Sayadaw is currently the chief abbot of Vishwa Shanti Vihara in Kathmandu.
p.s. special thanks to Ven. U Nagasena for bringing Ven. Sayadaw to the centre and thanks to ven. Tejwant and Mr. Martin for the preparation.
May all beings be happy and peace….

Posted on September, 07, 2007

BHAGWAT NIRALA PASSED AWAY

AMBEDKARTIMES.COM CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FAMILY

Dr. Vivek Nirala is a well known name in the community but it is very shocking news to us that his father Bhagwat Nirala (68 Years old) passed away with minor heart attack on August 29, 2007 in Bilaspur, India.

Bhagwat Nirala hosted some DS4 meetings in the village during 1984-87. He was very active man in his social circle and had no previous health problem. Last two days before his death when Dr. Vivek Nirala spoke to him on phone, he was fine and doing work as usual. But this was very shocking to him when his younger brother, who was with his father in the final hours & said father is no more.
Dr. Nirala will be in India (Delhi, Raipur and Semara) from September 5-15 for the funeral & he will come back to US on September 16, 2007.
At this, distressed to know the sad demise of Bhagwat Nirala www. Ambedkartimes.com offers their condolences to the bereaved family.

Posted on September, 07, 2007

Bhagwat Nirala

ISHWAR DAS PAWAR PASSED AWAY

ISHWAR DAS PAWAR

AMBEDKARTIMES.COM

CONDOLENCES TO THE BEREAVED FAMILY

Ambedkartimes.com is distressed to know the sad demise of Ishwar Das Pawar, District and Session Judge (Retd.)Whose contribution to the upliftment of the community would be remembered for ever. He was the first Scheduled Caste gazetted officer in the Punjab. It was during his stint in the passport department, as a undersecretary, that the Scheduled Castes started getting passport to go abroad. He helped thousands of community fellows to go and settled abroad. Earlier it was really very difficult for the SCs to receive the passport from the upper caste officers. Pawar sahib was also very close to Babu Mangoo Ram Mugowalia, freedom fighter & founder of the Ad Dharm Movement. Mangoo Ram Mugowalia often used to come to Pawar Sahib with other members of the movement at Chandigarh. In 1970 he also became member of the Organizing Committee of the Ad Dharm Scheduled Caste Federation, a renewed wing of the Ad Dharm Mandal reorganized on 13 December 1970 during its first big conference held at Dera Sant Sarwan Dass,Ballan (Jalandhar).

We all mourn the death of this Ad Dharm Surveer and offer our condolences to the bereaved family.

Sacramento:- The Punjabi Sahit Sabha California, USA (Regd.) is inviting to all lovers of Punjabi Literature to attend 13th Punjabi Literature Conference on Sunday, September 9th, 2007 at Lakshmi Narayana Mandir’s community hall: 7495 Elder Creek Road Sacramento, California 95824 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm. Dr. Jaspal Singh former literary columnist of The Tribune will deliver a key note address on Postmodern Diaspora Punjabi American Literature and a lively discussion shall follow thereafter. Your participation will be a great contribution to the historic event. If you have any concerns, please feel free to contact me anytime.

GOHANA BURNING AGAIN!

MURDER OF A DALIT LEADER IN GOHANA
POLICE LATHI CHARGED OVER PROTESTING DALITS

S. L. Virdi Advocate

On Monday evening, a large number of angry Dalits clashed with the police, set ablaze a police chownki, damaged Haryana Roadways buses and jammed the link road traffic in Gohana Town of District Sonipat (Haryana). 20 people were hurt in the action including 8 police men.

Trouble started when a Dalit youth Rakesh Alias Lara was shot dead here last night by three men came on a motor cycle.

The violence this morning was again sparked when the police brought the body of a murdered Dalit youth in a truck from the Rohtak PGIMS. A large number of Dalits protesters came out in streets in Gohana.

It is pertinent to mention here that Rakesh was acquitted in the murder of Baljit Siwach a Jat Financer of nearby Garhwal village on August 27, 2005 near the Balmiki Basti in Gohana, on misbehaving a Dalit woman.

How dared the Dalits? In retaliation against the Baljit's murder, a mob of twelve villagers, gathered for Maha Panchayat at Gohana on August 31, 2005, first looted the houses and set on fire the Balmiki Basti in which 50 houses of the Dalits were damaged and ruined.

Under the pressure, the State government ordered a CBI inquiry into the murder and torching of Dalit houses in Gohana Balmiki Basti.

The police arrested Ramesh with six other Dalit youths following the murder of Baljit Siwach, Rakesh and other three youths were, however, acquitted by the CBI special court on November 26, 2006 due to the lack of evidence. The incident took place due to revenge and for teaching a lesson to the Dalits.

The University of British Columbia last week hosted the 14th International Triennial Commonwealth Literature Conference with the theme "Literature of Our Times." Academics from all over the world attended. In conjunction, the Chetna Association at the Dr. Ambedkar Library in the Guru Ravi Dass Community Centre organized a seminar dedicated to renowned Punjabi poet, Lal Singh Dil, last Sunday evening.

Mr. Dil was scheduled to speak at the event, but due to an illness, he died on August 14. Therefore, the program was changed to commemorate his achievements in the literature of the oppressed. Several prominent writers, journalists, local artists and social activists attended and engaged in knowledge translation. The unveiling of Mr. Dil's portrait was done by a local artist Shital Anmol and a candle lighting in his memory preceded the presentations.

The loss of Dil, according to many at the event, will "leave a large void in the field of the literature of the oppressed." However, his memory and powerful words live on. The new words and idioms he introduced made him a distinguished Punjabi poet. Despite being a well-known and progressive writer, he died in poverty and, as members of the Chetna Associoation pointed out, "a few days earlier, the poet was found unconscious in his dingy room at Balmiki Mohalla when a team of TV journalists arrived to film a documentary on his contribution to the revolutionist poetry in Punjab."

Being a Dalit left a deep scar on Dil's identity, and because of his caste he also suffered spiritually, abandoned his Hindu religion and did not die a Hindu. At the event, one way to pay tribute to the passion that led him to change the condition of the landless was through a visual clip. Indeed, his words were powerful when he spoke about the lived experience of being Dalit. "This shows our people's slavery and mental slavery," he said. His words to explain the oppression and to encourage activism were expressed thus: "Those who do not know how to fight and those who wish not to fight are enslaved; slavery is a terrible scar. We do not know how to speak up, that is the issue - we keep silent. People must realize this is our land and it belongs to us."

The words are very much at the heart of Karl Marx's ideas about mobilization of the masses to produce social change. A necessary strategy is for a leader to form and to help get the oppressed out of "false consciousness." This involves questioning and debunking the ideologies employed to oppress them. What people need to realize is that they occupied the land first. In this context, a "Conflict Perspective," would argue that the caste system is an "ancient prejudice" to rationalize the unequal distribution of resources. Franz Fanon pointed out a similar argument for change in his well-known book "The Wretched of the Earth," where he wrote about the need to educate the masses as a means of liberation from oppression in the context of the Algerian war and terrorism. It is this theme of mobilization and education that the guest speakers touched on.

Keynote speakers at the UBC conference also spoke at the event. They included Sivakami Palanimuthu, a writer and social activist who is described as a "champion of Dalit and women rights." Her most recent work is the novel "The Grip of Change" in which she shows "Dalit life in the raw, what is done to them, and what they do themselves," (The Hindu, 2006).

When I asked her about the strategies she employed to expand the Dalit Land Rights Movement in the context of government, she was not shy to talk about her interactions with government officials and her interactions with members of the Tamil Panther Movement, as well as the hospitality of Dalit Panther leader, Thirumavalar. She spoke about "being a tool of the movement to organize meetings and raise awareness of the plight of the Dalits and their landlessness and the need for the creation of land policy.

Some key issues raised were: 1) government has a "modern" responsibility; 2) how Dalits can turn to the government and ask for land; 3) uprooting of Dalits who dwell on high cost land (in the urban centers); 4) provisions of basics amenities in urban settings; and 5) amendments to "The Land Ceiling Act."

She also stated that the issues of the Dalits are not only economical in accessing land, but "much more, it is the dignity." Although she herself is successful and has elevated herself economically; she spoke about still being tagged as a "Dalit." Inspired by her words, Ajmer Rode, (regarded as the "founder of Punjabi theater in Canada" who wrote the first Punjabi play Dooja Passa on racism experienced by minorities and is known for his recent play Rebirth Of Gandhi, which was inspired by Ms. Palanimuthu's work), said: "Her writing indeed is what a writer should be, getting involved at the grass roots level -the writing that comes out of that - is real writing."

Another speaker from the conference was Arun Prabha Mukherjee, a professor of English at Toronto's York University, specializing in South Asian and minority literatures. Mukherjee has authored many books, including her much acclaimed "Towards an Aesthetic of Opposition and is currently translating Marathi Dalit writer Sharan Kumar Limbale's novel "Hindu." She pointed out how Mr. Dil's poetry inspired her: "Poets like Lal Singh Dil leave words behind that will inspire in different phases of peoples lives. They are the spark and the light to keep the fire burning."

As an educator, she said, "It is sad that this great literature is not taught in schools and universities. These words have a great effect on the younger generation because of the eye-opening realities of life of India that was hidden from them. People forget social injustice and different work needs to be done to keep memories alive.

"Prominent activist from Nawan Shaher, Mr. Om Parkash Lakha (General Secretary of Dr. Ambedkar Mission Society and Trust), also spoke and said he that he was hopeful to tell the Dalits upon his return to India, that Dr. Amdedkar societies are doing well in Canada, and "in a globalized world, emancipation is easier."

As the evening came to a close, local Punjabi singer, Kamlesh Ahir sang with passion and asked: "Why did Lal Singh Dil never marry? He chose not to because he loved a woman from a different caste and he loved her all his life." Indeed, Mr. Dil lived for self-respect and died for self-respect even in matters of the heart.

Also present at the event, as the only non-South Asian, was conference participant Dr. Karin Doerr, professor from Concordia University, Montreal. She was called upon to be part of the award presentation. Her work as researcher and educator is connected to injustice, revolving around the issues of extreme discrimination and genocide as they occurred during World War II in Germany and examines its manifestations in language and literature.

Of special concern to her is the plight of women in struggles and conflicts because it often gets neglected. She said her visit and interactions within the South Asian community and its literature was a learning experience as she enhanced her knowledge about the injustice experienced by the Dalits and the widows in the Delhi colonies following the Sikh massacre of 1984. This, she feels, needs to be shared and exposed more to promote general awareness.

In closing, one of the organizers of the event with the Chetna Association, Jai Birdi, said the speakers' words generated such passion and emotion as they collectively, through their academic work and interest, paid homage to the Dalit movement and the discrimination they experience. They agreed that we all have a social responsibility to fight castism, to continue to make it a global issue and employ the strategies for social transformation urged by Dr. Ambedkar: "Educate, organize and agitate."

This article forwarded by Mr. Jai Birdi.
*VOICEONLINE.COM*

Posted on August 29, 2007

ATROCITIES AND SOCIAL BOYCOTT
OF DALITS IN PUNJAB

S. L. Virdi Advocate

There are discriminated people all over the world but no any where on this earth the natives now known as Dalits, the sons of their own soil, have been treated as animals continuously for thousands years under the social system called Varna System. The system is now popularly known as caste system.

In India, 350 millions of people officially termed and called Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes now called Dalits are being treated inhumanly, discriminated against and oppressed relentlessly by various modes and methods.

If Dalits try to enjoy the constitutional rights to improve their life, they are brutally killed, their women are raped, children are slaughtered, wells are poisoned, and their dwellings are burned collectively. One Lakh cases of atrocities are reported in the police stations every year and almost equal number of atrocities is not reported and recorded. During last 60 years about One Lakh people have been killed by the upper caste people due to castism.

Punjab is not very much behind in committing atrocities and following the practice of untouchability. In Tur village of the Tarn Taran District, the Dalits are facing social boycott by the Landlords for the past ten days. Trouble started when a Dalit woman Charanjit Kaur with her relative (Kurmani) Swarn Kaur had gone to the fields for answering the call of nature (excreta). A Landlord's son misbehaved them. The matter was reported to Police, which booked the boy, in retaliation, the Landlord imposed the social boycott on Dalits. Situation in the village is tense, but the Police is strictly watching.

On 19th August in village Faridpur of District Fatehgarh Sahib in Punjab, four Dalit girls were forced to pick up their own nature soil (excreta) with their hands and were victimized by the landlords.

DALIT STUDENT LOST HIS VISION

FOR DEMANDING MORE FOOD IN BIHAR

A Dalit Navin Kumar Paswan, student of fourth class, Government School, Aujapauchha of District Purnea in Bihar, lost his one eye after headmaster and master beating him up mercilessly for simply demanding more food during Mid-Day Meal Scheme run by the WHO, Agency of the UNO.

POSTED ON AUGUST 27, 2007

We are sharing some of the photographs taken during these days at Mohammadabad.

SCAVENGER GIRLS OF MOHAMMDABAD,
GHAZIPUR (UTTAR-PRADESH)

V. B. RAWAT

I have just returned from a long trip from Eastern Uttar-Pradesh. On 15th of August, this year, at Mohammdabad, we honored the two young girls from scavenger community who stood first in their board examinations of 10th and 12th. We had promised to give them a bicycle each if they score good marks. The two of them worked hard. To instigate the other girls and boys in the community to work harder, a meeting was organized with the parents of the girls and other elders from the community.

Social Development Foundation's local centre in Mohammdabad has become ray of hope for not only the scavenger and Dalit girls but also for the Muslims girls who come and learn sewing. A two days workshop in developing humanist leadership among Dalit youth was also organized in Mohammdabad.

We would like to thank each one of our individual donors who supported the cause of the Dalit girls and hope they would continue do so. I will be sending a detailed note to our friends soon on the outcome of our scholarship scheme. We are happy to inform you that apart from sewing, we have decided to start a computer learning programme at our centre and are in the process of getting another computer so that the girls can learn computer skills. Apart from that we also intend to start designing, jardoi work also.

The process has been difficult as this is really a constructing work and the community is appreciating it but individual donations are tough thing to collect. We will be releasing the list of individuals who donated last year and our expense sheet for the same.

This year we plan to provide scholarship to 15 girls & already 40 girls are learning sewing free of cost. Now as our computer centre will start functioning in next two months, we expect more enrollments for the same.

POSTED ON AUGUST 24, 2007

DALITS AFTER 60 YEARS OF INDEPENDENCE OF INDIA
Dalit girls forced to pick up their own excreta in Punjab

Phagwara:- On 19th August in village Faridpur, 30 km. from Patiala District in Punjab, four dalit girls were forced to pick up their own excreta with their hands and were victimised by the landlords. The girls had gone to the nature soil in the fields. The owner of the field not only insulted them but forced them to pick up the excreta.

The Local Dalits protested against the inhuman behaviour but police failed to take action against the land lords accused.

The Constitution of India in its article 46 casts a duty on the state to protect Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes from social injustice and all forms of exploitation. How far has the state been able to protect them?. The state government failed to check atrocities on Dalits in Punjab. Atrocities on Dalits are due to Casteism. There have been innumerable and persistent atrocities on Dalits even after the 60 years of Independence of India.

S. L. Virdi, Advocate, (Phagwara, Punjab.)

POSTED ON AUGUST 22, 2007

SPECIAL THANKS TO
SHRI GURU RAVI DASS SABHA OF NEW YORK

Our special thanks to Shri Guru Ravidas Sabha New York and to all Punjabis who took first historic step to highlight Baba Sahib Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in India 's 60th Independence Day Parade in New York .

NRI Punjabis have played a lead role in spreading and promoting Baba Sahib Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's mission around the world for over fifty years. They have always offered their services and finances voluntarily for the community support.

I must mention here that the main organizers and financers of Baba Sahib's float were our Punjabi brothers and sisters of New York along with other Indians. We extend our support from around the world to encourage them to do more such historic events.

We are proud of our community members who dedicate their time and money to spread Baba Sahib's Mission of Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. Today, we are proud of all who organized Baba Sahib's float for the parade. Our special thanks to Shri Guru Ravidas Sabha and all Punjabi brothers and sisters for their support and financial help that made it happen.

Also, we appreciate AMBEDKARTIMES.COM for posting beautiful pictures of the float.

This is first time in New York, Ambedkar float is being put in the India Day Parade in New York. The India Day parade is on Sunday, the 19 August 2007. This is a good occasion for all of us around New York City to show solidarity and show of our strength. The Parade will start at 9.00 A.M. Our float is something like 45 ft. Our friends in New York are working very hard on getting real big size portraits of Babasaheb.

The idea was muted quite late and then to get the permission to be part of the procession was not all that easy. Hence it took lot of time to fix all these things. The entry fee into the procession is US$ 3500; which is already been paid of by the Ambedkarites in New York.

So, please join us one and all. I guess our people right up to Virginia in the south and up to Boston in the North/East should make an attempt to be part of this parade with their families.

Our Punjabi friends are hiring a bus to facilitate participation of our people from Queens’s area in New York. The parade starts at 41st street in Madison Square and goes up to 23rd Street. This is a first time ever for all of us and hence i too, cannot resist from not participating in it and hence will definitely show up in New York.

Quite a few of us are working on putting together the posters, banners and the handouts for distribution. So, see you all in New York on Sunday, 19 August 2007.

Lord Alton of Liverpool asked Her Majesty’s Government:
26 Mar 2007 : Column 1434 India : Dalit 2.46 pm
What representations they have made to the Government of India about human rights and exploitation of the Dalits in India .

Baroness Royall of Blaisdon: My Lords, officials at the British High Commission have regular discussions on human rights, including rights for Dalits, with the Government of India. My right honourable friend Ian McCartney, the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, raised human rights issues during his recent visit to India and subsequently wrote to Anand Sharma, the Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs.

Lord Alton of Liverpool : My Lords, I thank the Minister for that reply. Is she aware that 200 years ago William Wilberforce described what he called âœthe cruel shacklesâ of the caste system as, âœa detestable expedient ... a system at war with truth and natureâ With the launch this week of the film âœIndia’s Hidden Slaveryâ, which highlights the violence, exploitation and discrimination experienced by India’s 167 million Dalits, will we work with the Government of India to challenge, not least through education, the persistence into the 21st century of this degrading and pernicious system, which threatens the social stability and economic progress of India? Does the Minister agree with India ‘s Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh, that, âœUntouchability is not just social discrimination, it is a blot on humanityâ?

Baroness Royall of Blaisdon: My Lords, I agree with the noble Lord and with the Prime Minister of Indiaâ”it is indeed a blot on humanity. Discrimination on the basis of caste identity constrains the human rights, livelihoods and life chances of millions of men, women and children. It is a systematic injustice and a routine violation of the most basic human rights. For that reason, we are working with the Government of India to assist them in addressing the issue and in implementing the rather good legislation that they have but which is not yet being properly implemented.

Lord Avebury: My Lords, as one means of helping the Government of India, would the noble Baroness consider the suggestion made by a member of the United Nations Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination that social data collected in India should be disaggregated by class, so that the relative disadvantage suffered by Dalits and Adivasis can be measured, particularly their relative attainment of the millennium development goals, compared with the population of India as a whole?

26 Mar 2007 : Column 1435

Baroness Royall of Blaisdon: My Lords, I regret that I do not have a specific view on the data mentioned by the noble Lord, but I will certainly look into them. One of the programmes that DfID is funding concerns data in respect of Dalits, so I hope to be able to give him a full reply, a copy of which I will place in the Library.

Lord Anderson of Swansea : My Lords, India is a vibrant, modernising democracy and a good friend within the Commonwealth. Should not our message be that, in so far as it does not deal sympathetically with the Dalit problem, that is not only wrong in itself but blunts India ‘s excellent record on human rights outside its borders?

Baroness Royall of Blaisdon: My Lords, my noble friend is absolutely correct. As I pointed out in my earlier response, it is why my right honourable friend has written to the Minister responsible in India . We raise this issue frequently and our High Commission regularly raises it with officials in India . It is a matter that we will not leave because it is a blatant injustice and has to be dealt with. The Indians are our very good friends and we want to work with them to help them to eradicate it.

Lord Harries of Pentregarth: My Lords, in view of India ‘s very rapid economic growth, does the Minister agree that there is an historic opportunity to ensure that the Dalits are included in this growing employment? Will she accept on behalf of government employees in India the Ambedkar principles of fair employment, particularly for Dalits? Will she encourage the many British companies now investing in India also to accept those principles of fair employment?

Baroness Royall of Blaisdon: My Lords, we certainly support the Ambedkar principles and we are encouraging all companies that have a relationship with India , trading or whatever, to support those principles as well. Our main approach on labour standards is via the UN’s Global Compact, which is an agreement, launched by Kofi Annan in 2000, between the UN and business to uphold and promulgate 10 principles covering human rights, labour, the environment and combating corruption, but the Ambedkar principles are very good.

Lord Desai: My Lords, is my noble friend aware that India has a policy of reservation, both in employment and for slots in higher education, for scheduled castesâ”the Dalitsâ”and scheduled tribes? Does she agree that a more important task for India is to pay attention to primary and secondary education for the Dalits and others so that they can progress to higher education and good government jobs?

26 Mar 2007 : Column 1436

Baroness Royall of Blaisdon: Indeed, my Lords, we applaud the policy of reservation for the moment, but we hope that one day, with more education opportunities for Dalits, it will no longer be necessary. For that reason, many of our programmes are to do with education, especially of women and girls in India .
Baroness Cox: My Lords, is the Minister aware that, in contradiction to India’s national constitution, nine out of 28 states have passed anti-conversion laws, which deprive people of the freedom to choose and change religion and deprive Dalits of the right to move out of the caste system?
Baroness Royall of Blaisdon: My Lords, I am aware of those anti-conversion laws. They are a subject of our regular dialogue with the Government of India and with states.

TIME NOW FOR ABOLITION OF CASTEThe celebrations to mark the Act of abolishing the Slave Trade in 1807 were invoked at a meeting in Parliament seeking an end to caste discrimination. Chairing the meeting the Bishop of Chelmsford, Rt Revd John Gladwin, said what an important weekend this was, marking the 200th anniversary of Abolition, and drew parallels with the need to abolish caste discrimination also. Dr Joseph D’Souza from the Dalit Freedom Network quoted Wilberforce who had achieved his aim 200 years ago in this same Parliament. Wilberforce said, ‘Caste is a system at war with truth and nature’.
The meeting was organised by the Dalit Solidarity Network, in conjunction with Christian Solidarity Worldwide which is hosting the delegation for two weeks, to brief MPs and others on the current situation in the caste struggle. Professor Kancha Ilaiah drew attention to the recent statement by the Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh, who drew a clear parallel between untouchability and apartheid. He said the situation was getting worse and could lead to civil war. The police continue to be severely repressive towards the 250 million Dalit and Tribal Peoples, with beatings and killings. ‘What has changed’, said Professor Ilaiah ‘is Dalit consciousness and that at a global level’. He spoke also of the need for Dalits to be taught English as that was the language of opportunity.
Indira Athawale spoke about the particular repression experienced by Dalit women. She recounted the incident last September at Kherlanji where - over an argument on land ownership - a mother and daughter were paraded naked, beaten, raped and killed. Two sons were also murdered. Scores of people were involved, thirty were arrested but all have now been freed. Thousand of Dalits came out in protest and such acts of resistance are growing more frequent.
The next speaker Moses Parmar told the story of a village where his organisation was offering support to the Dalit communities. One Brahmin family had controlled a village of 500 Dalits, until finally they rebelled and the Brahmin family were almost murdered. He said that Christianity offers liberation and a future for Dalits.
Dr D’Souza, also speaking about the Kherlanji incident, said that in the past it would have been swept under the carpet - now it is being exposed even by the media, largely controlled by the oppressive castes. ‘What is being done to Dalits and Tribals is unpardonable and intolerable’, he said. He noted that at the beginning of the year the Indian Finance Minister had crowed that with ‘India is rising’ there had been 9% growth last year. What he did not say however that this was only for 20% of the population, little is changing for the many millions of Dalits.
Jeremy Corbyn MP, Chair of the Dalit Solidarity Network (UK), commented afterwards, ‘In the light of what has been said today we have a real responsibility continue the struggle, inside the UK Parliament and outside, to raise the consciousness of people in the UK’. Revd David Haslam, Chair of the Network Trustees, said, ‘We must get people to realise this is an international struggle for human rights on the same level as the battle against apartheid in the last century, and against slavery the centuries before’.